Mathematics textbooks are critical tools for student learning in American classrooms. Teachers use them daily to plan and deliver lessons, and students use them in class to explore and learn mathematics. Given textbooks' potential to support student learning, it is important to understand how they are developed. While pressure is growing on…

The controversies over textbook content common in the 1960s and 1970s have been resolved for the most part, but now a new debate over textbook quality is surfacing. The forces for change are led by instructional designers, advocates of educational rigor, and those urging preparation for tomorrow's technological world. (PGD)

Argues that only through understanding and improving the textbook adoption process can those interested in improving education influence the quality of textbooks printed and used. Presents some observations about the adoption process, makes recommendations for research, and suggests actions to take while waiting for research findings to come in.…