Edward (Ted) Britton is associate director of the National Center for Improving Science Education (NCISE), housed within the Mathematics, Science, and Technology program of WestEd. Dr. Britton brings long experience in research and evaluation of curriculum issues and materials to this book. In collaboration with Senta Raizen and others, he developed methods for a cross-national comparison of textbooks in the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). He led a review of curriculum materials that connect science and mathematics to workplace contexts, Connecting Mathematics and Science to Workplace Contexts. Britton currently serves on the Technology Education Advisory Council of the ITEA. His earlier NCISE research includes comparing high-stakes mathematics and science examinations across countries and studying U.S. innovations in mathematics and science education as part of an international study under the auspices of the Paris-based Organization of Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD). As project director for Mary Budd Rowe of the University of Florida during the 1980s, Ted developed the first CD-ROM in science education and produced videotapes for the professional development of science teachers. During the late 1970s, he taught science courses for Grades 7–12 at a rural junior-senior high school in Florida. Britton earned an EdD in science education, an MS in analytical chemistry, and a BS in chemistry and education from the University of Florida.