This article examines children's and adults' attitudes to virtual representations of museum objects. It draws on empirical research data gained from two web-based digital learning environments conceived and designed by the authors: the Burmese Theatre Orchestra project ("Burma"), which was based on the Designated World Cultures Collection of Exeter Museums, and the Virtual Victorians project (based on the Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life collection). Both resources were developed principally for UK primary schools.

The article explores the characteristics of online learning activities that move children from a sense of wonder into meaningful engagement with objects and ...