Ryan Riley

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Ryan Riley is a computing education researcher whose work focuses on broadening participation in the computing disciplines through innovative, hands-on outreach. His most-cited paper, "Attracting Students to the Computing Disciplines: A Case Study of a Robotics Contest" (2013, 14 citations), demonstrates his core contribution: using robotics competitions as a powerful, engaging tool to guide high school students toward computing careers. Riley’s research addresses a critical challenge—how parents, teachers, and career-counselors can effectively inspire students—by moving beyond traditional career fairs and open houses. He shows that active, project-based experiences can spark lasting interest in technology fields. While his citation count reflects a focused, early-career impact, his work is notable for its practical, community-oriented approach. Riley’s studies offer actionable insights for educators and institutions seeking to diversify the tech pipeline, making him a valuable voice in computing education research. His emphasis on robotics as a gateway discipline highlights a creative, student-centered strategy for shaping the next generation of technologists.