Loyola University Chicago

The Children's Memory study is a research program directed by Catherine Haden, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychology.

We study the development of memory over the preschool years, and the important role of parent-child conversational interactions for children’s learning and remembering. In recent research in our laboratory, we have trained parents to use “elaborative” conversational techniques that involve the use of language to focus children’s attention and to increase understanding of events in ways that our previous research indicates should influence what gets into memory and, in turn, enhance what is recalled. Other new work focuses on styles of conversation that are most effective in fostering children’s understanding and the retention and extension of information encountered in a museum setting.

The Lab provides research opportunities for students at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Undergraduates interested in working in the laboratory as a volunteer, or for course credit (Psych 399, or 397, or Psych Honors), should read about our ongoing projects, and research opportunities for undergraduates, and then contact Dr. Haden directly for more information.