Ryan Schaaf

Ryan Schaaf serves as Chair of Advanced Programs and Associate Professor at the School of Education of Notre Dame of Maryland University, where he leads initiatives in Digital Technology Leadership and Instructional Leadership for Changing Populations. Prior to academia, he worked as a classroom teacher, instructional leader, and technology mentor in the Howard County Public School System, earning a Maryland Teacher of the Year nomination in 2007.

• Education: Ph.D. candidate in Instructional Leadership for Changing Populations (NDMU, 2012–present); M.S. in Educational Technology (Johns Hopkins University, 2007); B.S. in Elementary Education (Towson University, 1999).

His research focuses on leveraging digital games and emerging technologies to enhance teaching, learning, and assessment. He advocates for technology integration in curricula to prepare students for future challenges through real-world, relevant learning experiences. Publications and presentations emphasize practical frameworks for implementing game-based learning and safe digital infrastructures.

Ryan’s scientific awards include the 2016 IPPY Silver Medal for education resources, the 2008 Hickey Courage to Change Award, and multiple grants (e.g., IBM Internet Safety Grant, 2005/2007). He has presented at conferences like Serious Play and ISTE, highlighting strategies for 21st-century pedagogy and technology-driven assessment.