A recent report conducted by a National Research Council (NRC) committee found that science labs have the potential to help students master science subject matter, develop scientific reasoning skills, increase interest in science, and achieve other important science learning goals and career objectives. Unfortunately, the report also reveals that these goals are not being achieved in the United States today. The quality of lab instruction is poor for most students nationwide and several factors contribute to this unsatisfactory situation, which are addressed in this month's Commentary column.