Mon-Lin Monica Ko

Mon-Lin Monica Ko is a Visiting Assistant Professor at the Learning Sciences Research Institute (LSRI) within the University of Illinois Chicago. Her work focuses on enhancing secondary science education through teacher professional development and design-based research.

• Education: PhD in Learning Sciences (Northwestern University, 2013); BA in Biology with emphasis on Neurobiology (Northwestern University, 2005)

Her research examines how classrooms can cultivate students’ epistemic agency and how co-design practices with teachers improve science pedagogy. She has led studies on curriculum redesign, argumentation practices, and assessment strategies aligned with Next Generation Science Standards.

Monica’s recent publications emphasize design-based research methodologies, curriculum innovation, and interdisciplinary teaching frameworks. These works highlight her interest in disciplinary discourse, modeling practices, and collaborative teacher learning.

She has secured significant funding as Senior Investigator from the National Science Foundation, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, and Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, focusing on assessment literacy and resource development for science educators.