Conventional experimental research in mental imagery and visualization presents conflicting findings. Naturalistic inquiry offers an alternative approach for the study of mental imagery and problem solving. Paulo Freire, for example, used a naturalistic approach that emphasized active involvement in learning. Imagery can play an important role in learning and can be applied directly in the classrooom. A study is planned to have high school students apply mental imagery in a college reading course and middle school students in a science course. The research on mental imagery and problem solving will involve three basic activities: learning to visualize; using internal and external images to solve problems; and using mental rehearsal to conduct science experiments or take tests in a college reading course. Experimental research is limited in documenting comprehensively the imagery process and subsequent learning behavior. A well-thought out research plan involving both experimental and naturalistic methodologies is the best approach. This paper shares some activities for possible research with the mental imagery process that involves participation by students in a natural setting. Fifteen references are listed. (LMM)