UW Learning Experiences
UW–Madison instructors can include the Child Development Lab (CDL) in their courses through observations, visits, or projects. Giving students the opportunity to apply course concepts to real-world settings offers an invaluable learning experience for students in different departments across campus, such as Human Development & Family Studies, Educational Psychology, and Curriculum and Instruction. We ask that instructors and students reach out to the CDL as early as possible for accommodations and scheduling. Everyone visiting the CDL must abide by our policies.
UW Instructors
The CDL as a teaching tool
To schedule a class visit, observation, guest lecture, or coordinate a class project, please fill out this form:
UW Students
The CDL as a learning tool
UW students seeking an opportunity to do different course work with the CDL, please fill out this form:
Looking for employment opportunities?
If you’re a UW–Madison
student seeking an internship, job, or volunteer position, check out the employment page.
Policies
Everyone visiting or observing at the Child Development Lab must abide by our policies.
Scheduling a visit
If your class is visiting the CDL, your instructor will share details about your visit.
If you’re planning an individual course project, please complete the UW–Madison student form and we’ll follow up by email.
Arrival to the CDL
The Child Development Lab is located in 1301 Nancy Nicholas Hall. CDL doors are locked at all times — ring the doorbell for entry.
Please do not bring drinks or food to the Child Development Lab, especially nuts.
Check-in
Upon arrival, you will be asked to wear an “Observer” name tag and sign in to our visitor log.
Observers will need to turn in a Wiscard and phone prior to entering the observation booth.
Observation policies
Observers must be escorted through by staff.
Photos, videos, and audio recordings are strictly prohibited.
Remain as unobtrusive as possible when observing children, families, and staff.
Departures
Be sure to sign out and retrieve your phone and Wiscard before departing.
Under no circumstances will any documentation from an observation be posted online or shared in any way beyond the course assignment. Only use pseudonyms in assignments.
Ready to partner with the CDL?
The Child Development Lab welcomes collaboration with researchers interested in advancing knowledge about children, families, and early learning.
Whether you are developing a new idea or preparing to launch a study, we invite you to start the conversation.