Research & Evaluation

We pioneer new learning environments, programs, exhibits, and other tools that help people nurture their curiosity—but we don’t work blindly. We study the impact of much of what we do through research and evaluation.

We believe that research and evaluation are critical steps in understanding the nature of learning and in designing for learning innovation. Conducting research allows us to study learning broadly; evaluation enables us to consider how our work can be improved. The books, reports, and studies we produce don’t just affect our own work; they also influence learning in informal environments and in the museum field worldwide.

Our Visitor Research and Evaluation (VRE) group conducts research studies on learning in informal environments at the Exploratorium, as well as evaluation studies that inform and improve the exhibits and programs developed here. A variety of reports and publications produced by VRE are available online, along with information about VRE projects, such as GIVE (Group Inquiry by Visitors at Exhibits).

The Center for Informal Learning and Schools (CILS) researches learning in informal environments, the informal science education infrastructure, and the connections between in- and out-of-school science learning. Currently, CILS, working in partnership with SRI International, is leading the research and evaluation of the National Science Foundation’s Academies for Young Scientists (NSF/AYS) program, an initiative designed to increase student interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education and careers through out-of-school-time programming. CILS also led an inquiry group that produced a report for the Center for the Advancement of Informal Education (CAISE). The report is called Making Science Matter: Collaborations Between Informal Science Education Organizations and Schools. Other projects include a national study called Museums Afterschool: Principles, Data, and Design.