Monae Verbeke Ph.D.
Director of Evaluation / Senior Researcher
Based in Chicago, Illinois, Monae has worked in the field of informal science education for nearly a decade. In this last decade, Monae has evaluated a wide-range of arts and science programs, using multi-method approaches to gauge their impacts on dimensions of emotional, interest and understanding. Monae loves to use her interdisciplinary background, as both a biologist and environmental sociologist, to think innovatively about the issues facing STEAM engagement. She is passionate about improving informal learning programs use of research and innovative technology to create meaningful engagement with publics. Monae is committed to improving STEAM engagement through the sharing of ‘best practices’, including innovative evaluation tools.
Monae’s expertise includes environmental literacy, multi-method study design and public engagement with science. Her favorite free-choice learning activities include exploring the outdoors with her dog, looking for the oddest animal in new zoos, and riding horses.