Ryan Sayer

Ryan Sayer is a Part-Time Lecturer in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Pittsburgh, affiliated with the Dietrich School. His research focuses on improving student learning in upper-level quantum mechanics (QM) courses by applying pedagogical approaches from introductory physics, such as Just-in-Time Teaching (JiTT) and peer discussions with clicker questions. He contributed to developing the Quantum Interactive Learning Tutorial (QuILT) based on the Double-Slit Experiment, which enhances students' conceptual understanding of QM.

• Investigated TA grading practices, revealing ingrained beliefs about formative assessment and disciplinary differences in grading introductory vs. QM problems.
• Developed research-based activities for TA professional development courses.

His PhD dissertation (2023) details strategies to replicate effective introductory physics pedagogy in advanced QM education, emphasizing knowledge transfer through structured learning tools.