Conducting Cognitive Developmental Research in Museums: Theoretical Issues and Practical Considerations

Increasingly, cognitive developmental researchers are forming partnerships with museums as a way to achieve both overlapping and distinctive goals. Such partnerships can further our understanding of cognitive development by providing opportunities to study children's learning within social contexts. At the same time, these collaborations can support the design of effective informal learning experiences for children and families. This article presents three distinct models for doing research in museums; they are presented in the context of both theoretical and practical concerns. Examples of research-museum partnerships are described, practical problems and potential solutions are discussed, and suggestions are provided for developmental researchers with an interest in developing museum partnerships.