Research & Development

NEMO researches the ways in which people learn about science and technology – “science learning” for short. The museum uses the insights it gains to make its exhibits fun, inspiring and educational.

Studies and tests

NEMO R&D breaks new ground in science learning. Researchers from the University of Amsterdam investigate how parents and children talk to one another as they explore the museum, while NEMO’s employees interact with visitors to test new concepts for exhibitions and activities.

NEMO Professor Maartje Raijmakers

What’s the best way for people to learn about science and technology? That’s the question behind the research of Maartje Raijmakers, Professor of Cognitive Development Psychology at the University of Amsterdam. As an endowed professor at NEMO, she performs scientific research in collaboration with peers while NEMO tests out ideas for new exhibitions with visitors. This combination of theory and practice by NEMO and the University of Amsterdam makes the museum fun and educational – all while revealing new insights about science learning.

Science learning at NEMO

You can do your own science learning even when the researchers at NEMO R&D are on a break. The best way to learn is by exploring the museum and doing research together. Ask questions, help each other out and watch how others interact with the exhibits. There are lots of ways you can help someone to get the best out of the museum.

Ask open questions
For example: “What would happen if...?” or “Why do you think this one moves faster?”
Describe what you see
For example: “Look, this one goes much higher!” or “It’s making lots of sparks now.”
Encourage each other
For example: “Shall we do it again?” or “Shall we try out the other exhibit?”