This document explores the mission, goals, and underlying philosophy of the National Center for Science Teaching and Learning (NCSTL). The reform of the U.S. educational system, especially in the area of science education, will require a thorough examination of noncurricular, external factors affecting science education. In order to bring about reform a discourse must be created among the divergent "cultures" of science education, science, and public policy. A brief description of five focus areas chosen for study is provided. The first of the five focus areas considers the influences of social and cultural factors on the nature, teaching, and learning of science. The second deals with public expectations and societal incentives and how they influence the teaching and learning of science. A third focus area looks at the effects of school organization, policy, and economic/political forces on science teaching and learning. The fourth considers how developing technologies will alter tomorrow's education and the psychological and social impact of technology. The fifth focus area deals with educational integration. A discussion of the underlying assumptions and predispositions affecting the NCSTL's research agenda is also included. (KR)