  Quantum information science and technology is a rapidly growing
interdisciplinary field drawing researchers from science and engineering
fields. Traditional instruction in quantum mechanics is insufficient to prepare
students for research in quantum computing because there is a lack of emphasis
in the current curriculum on quantum formalism and dynamics. We are
investigating the difficulties students have with quantum mechanics and are
developing and evaluating quantum interactive learning tutorials (QuILTs) to
reduce the difficulties. Our investigation includes interviews with individual
students and the development and administration of free-response and
multiple-choice tests. We discuss the implications of our research and
development project on helping students learn quantum mechanics relevant for
quantum computing.
