Context Drives Meaning
This month, we’re reflecting on the importance of cultural context in shaping human experiences. Whether we’re assessing cognitive development, measuring program impact, or designing community spaces, context influences everything—from how we interpret behaviors to how we foster belonging.
December Coffee Break Picks
HANNAH’S PICK
How Bias Shapes Assessment
“As a team, we recently explored an article discussing how popular developmental psychology tasks (e.g., ‘The Marshmallow Test’) are not universal predictors of cognitive function. Instead, they are deeply rooted in Western notions of success and what defines ‘good’ executive function. Cultural differences significantly influence how people respond to these tasks, and the article provides compelling examples of these variations. For us, this prompted reflection on whether our own evaluation methods might also be shaped by a White cultural context—and, importantly, what steps we can take to become more culturally responsive in our data collection practices.”
EBONY’S PICK
Letting Outcomes Emerge
“This month, I’m highlighting the Storytelling Evaluation Methodology, developed by Old Fire Station, a UK-based arts centre. This approach involves collecting, analyzing, and discussing stories to understand a program’s impact. Unlike traditional methods that set outcomes at the start, this methodology allows outcomes to emerge organically through the storytelling process. Program participants share their experiences and reflect on what changed for them, and everyone—including storytellers, story collectors, and partners—gathers to discuss what they’ve learned. I find this creative and participatory method a meaningful way to bring people together, make sense of experiences, and understand impact from diverse perspectives.”
RACHEL’S PICK
Museums and the Third Space Ideal
“Recently, we discussed the concept of museums as a ‘third space.’ Third spaces are social settings distinct from home (the first space) and work (the second space), where people can gather, connect, and foster community. Examples of third spaces include cafes and parks. We reflected on our own experiences at various museums and thought about whether they felt like third spaces and how welcoming their environments were. The notion of museums as third spaces can often seem contradictory—Do they charge admission? Are there even enough benches for seating? This article from the Guggenheim Museum addresses some of the obstacles museums face in becoming third spaces.”
New on the Learning Hub
What’s New At Kera?
We’re excited to kick off a four-season visitor study at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center this month! The study will provide data and insights to help CVC make strategic decisions about their audiences.
Cathy is wrapping up her second semester of teaching museum evaluation at The George Washington University. Her work continues to bring fresh ideas and approaches to the next generation of museum professionals!
As we wind down for the year, we’re taking time to reflect and recharge. Kera Collective will be observing a communications pause from December 15 to January 15. Wishing you a peaceful and joyful holiday season—we’ll see you in the new year!
Moment of Wonder
“I recently attended the Museum Computer Network conference in Lawrence, Kansas, and felt unexpectedly connected to the land. Staying near the river and walking through the quiet town and campus each day gave the experience a serene, calm beauty unlike typical conferences. This sense deepened when I visited the Spencer Museum of Art and saw Lisa Grossman’s stunning oil painting Navigating, which depicts the Kansas River (Kaw) from above. It made me reflect on how the land, in its quiet strength, supports us all—often in ways we don’t fully notice until we slow down and pay attention.”
— Cathy
