Zachary Alstad

Zac brings over 15 years of expertise in educational research to his role as Principal Researcher, focusing on how technology can be designed and evaluated to support diverse learners in real classroom contexts. As Principal Investigator on an NSF-funded project, Zac has integrated mixed methods and human-centered codesign to drive iterative innovation in educational technology environments, particularly those serving neurodiverse students. Technologies he has explored include AR, VR, and, more recently, generative AI systems.

At Leanlab, Zac advances codesign practices that ensure AI-powered educational tools are effective, trusted, and equitable. He believes that meaningful educational technology innovation begins with shared power, and that when students and teachers are central to research design, solutions become more usable, responsive, and inclusive.

Zac earned his B.A. in Psychology from St. Olaf college, M.A. in Educational Psychology from The University of Colorado, Denver, and his Ph.D. In Educational Psychology focusing on the Learning Sciences from The University of Washington.

In his free time, Zac enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, travel, and snowboarding.