Fueling Creativity in Education

Summer 2025 Academic Year Wrap-Up!

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In this special end-of-year recap, hosts Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett reflect on the biggest shifts and ongoing challenges in education as the 2024-2025 academic year comes to a close. They revisit the evolution of conversations around what skills and experiences students truly need in an age of rapid technological disruption, especially with the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence in schools. Topics include the purpose and intent behind field trips, balancing foundational content with experiential learning, and the growing importance of real-world skills such as collaboration, communication, and adaptability. The hosts debate whether today's students receive enough hands-on, physical learning opportunities and how educators might intentionally integrate these into the curriculum despite logistical and budgetary barriers.
As they look toward the future, Matthew and Cyndi also consider the impact of digital communication on relationship-building and life skills, questioning whether today’s students might be missing out on essential interpersonal experiences. They discuss the challenges teachers face in “keeping doors open” for students—maintaining exposure to diverse subjects—while acknowledging the impossibility of covering every topic in depth. The episode rounds out with a call to reimagine the role of the teacher as mentor and guide, supporting real-world learning and personal growth in an increasingly AI-driven world. Listeners are invited to join the ongoing conversation about essential skills for the next generation over on the Fueling Creativity in Education LinkedIn group, and to look forward to the upcoming Listen and Learn summer book series.
Eager to bring more creativity into your school district?
Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect!
Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education!
For more information on Creativity in Education, check out:
Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom
Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

Scholarly Debrief (10): Discussing Metacognition and the Importance of Sleep

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Are we missing an essential ingredient for creativity in education—like sleep?
In the Season 10 finale of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett hand over the mic to their resident scholar, Jimmy Wilson, for an in-depth reflection on the standout moments and innovative insights from an eclectic season. Jimmy draws connections between classroom creativity and essential factors we often overlook, like the power of sleep and the importance of understanding our own creative process.
The discussion dives into research showing how just a few minutes of rest can double or even triple creative problem-solving, and why productive struggle—not just instant success—is critical for growth. The hosts and Jimmy also grapple with how students can find their purpose in an AI-driven world, and why fostering community and authentic connections in the classroom are more important than ever. With highlights from luminaries like Teresa Amabile, Leo Burd, and Robert Sternberg, this episode asks educators to reconsider not only the tools they give students, but also the passion and purpose fueling the next generation.
Noteworthy Mentions
The Role of Sleep: Research cited showed that brief periods of sleep or even twilight rest significantly improve creative problem-solving.
Metacognition in the Classroom: Guests discussed the growing importance of helping students understand their own learning and thinking processes, especially amid the rise of AI.
Feedback & Incremental Growth: Celebrating small wins and providing clear, iterative feedback is more motivating than focusing solely on the end product.
Purpose and Passion: Transformational creativity comes from students connecting their work to a bigger purpose—benefiting themselves and their communities.
Productive Struggle: Perseverance and learning from failure are reframed as keys to creative development.
Authentic Audience: The impact of students seeing their work valued in the real world proves to be a major motivator.
About Jimmy Wilson
Jimmy Wilson is a doctoral candidate specializing in creativity and education at the University of Connecticut, currently completing a prestigious NSF fellowship in educational neuroscience. As the show's resident scholar, Jimmy brings a unique blend of fresh academic research and practical classroom insight. His work focuses on how biology, environment, and emerging technologies intersect to shape creativity at all levels of education. Passionate about connecting theory to practice, Jimmy is dedicated to helping educators foster greater creativity, resilience, and purpose in children and young adults alike.
 
Eager to bring more creativity into your school district?
Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect!
Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education!
For more information on Creativity in Education, check out:
Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom
Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education
 

Debrief 10(4): Connecting Creativity to Passion, Purpose, and Biomimicry

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Are today’s students losing their passion and sense of purpose—and how can educators help reignite it?
In this final debrief episode of Season 10, hosts Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett reflect on their standout interviews with a trio of trailblazers in creativity: astrobio futurist Billy Almon, MIT Media Lab’s Dr. Leo Burd, and the legendary Dr. Teresa Amabile. The conversation dives deep into the value of biomimicry—learning from nature to solve classroom challenges, the importance of finding purpose and passion in creative learning, and how small wins can fuel motivation for both teachers and students. Matt and Cyndi also explore whether influences like the pandemic and increased screen time are dampening young people's intrinsic motivation, and discuss how creativity can play a key role in happiness throughout all stages of life, including retirement. This lively, insightful wrap-up invites educators to ask themselves and their students thought-provoking questions about what inspires them, what matters most, and how to foster environments where creativity thrives.
Noteworthy Mentions
Biomimicry in Education: Drawing inspiration from nature—like the calculated strike of a scorpion—to foster creativity and problem-solving in classroom environments.
Five Ps of Creative Learning: A model discussed by Dr. Leo Burd, focusing on Passion, Project, Play, Peers and the crucial addition of Purpose in creative learning settings.
Purpose and Passion: A pressing concern about whether today’s students are struggling to find their "why," potentially due to pandemic disruptions, over-accommodation, or screen time overload.
Progress Principle: Dr. Teresa Amabile’s research on the power of recognizing small wins to sustain motivation and creativity—a strategy for both teachers and learners.
Creativity Across the Lifespan: The empowering idea that creativity isn’t just for the classroom—it's vital for happiness and fulfillment into retirement and beyond.
Conversation Starters: Encouragement for teachers to ask students what matters to them and what they’re passionate about, to help spark deeper engagement.
Episodes Discussed:
Billy Almon is an astrobio futurist known for his work in biomimicry and innovative approaches to creativity.
Dr. Leo Burd is a researcher at the MIT Media Lab, where he explores creative learning frameworks and the integration of purpose into educational experiences.
Dr. Teresa Amabile is a renowned scholar in the fields of creativity, motivation, and organizational behavior, widely recognized for her work on the progress principle and for championing creativity at every stage of life.
Eager to bring more creativity into your school district?
Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect!
Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education!
For more information on Creativity in Education, check out:
Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom
Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

The Value of Small Wins and the Progress Principle with Dr. Teresa Amabile (Part Two)

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Listen to Part One of the Double Expresso here!
In this exceptional double espresso of the Fueling Creativity in Education podcast, hosts Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett are joined by Dr. Teresa Amabile for part two of a discussion on creativity in education. The three explore the application of Dr. Amabile's Progress Principle, a concept that emphasizes how small wins drive motivation and creativity, even in classroom environments. Dr. Amabile shares insights from her research involving R&D teams at corporations, revealing how a positive inner work life, driven by progress in meaningful work, fosters creativity and productivity. The discussion expands into the significance of learning from setbacks and mistakes, a practice essential for both children and adults, and how celebrating failures can lead to further progress and creativity in education.
The episode also touches upon the intriguing topic of creativity in retirement, where Dr. Amabile shares findings from her recent research on life satisfaction of retirees, highlighting the importance of creative opportunities during the later years of one's career. Additionally, the episode addresses the potential impact of generative AI on creativity, sparking thoughts on its potential to support or hinder human creativity. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Amabile weaves personal stories and insights that add a warm, engaging touch to the academic discussion, offering listeners a fusion of inspiration and practical applications for fostering creativity in various stages of life and work.
The Progress Principle: Using Small Wins to Ignite Joy, Engagement, and Creativity at Work
Retiring: Creating a Life that Works for You
About Dr. Teresa Amabile:
Dr. Teresa Amabile is a world-renowned expert in creativity research, with 50 years of groundbreaking work in the field. She is the Edsel Bryant Ford Professor, Emerita, at Harvard Business School and originally trained as a chemist before earning her Ph.D. in psychology from Stanford University. Her research has explored the intersection of creativity, motivation, and the work environment, shaping how we understand and foster innovation. Dr. Amabile is the author of several influential books, including Growing Up Creative, Creativity in Context, The Progress Principle, and most recently, Retiring: Creating a Life that Works for You, as well as over 100 research articles and scholarly chapters. Her work continues to inspire educators, leaders, and organizations to cultivate environments that nurture creativity and innovation.
Eager to bring more creativity into your school district?
Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect!
Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education!
For more information on Creativity in Education, check out:
Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom
Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivation in the Classroom with Dr. Teresa Amabile (Part One)

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Listen to Part Two of the Double Expresso here!
In this episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett engage in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Teresa Amabile, a world-renowned expert in creativity research. Teresa shares fascinating insights from her impressive 50-year career, discussing her journey and the many chapters of her groundbreaking work. The conversation begins into her early interests in childhood creativity, sparked during her time in kindergarten, and how these experiences led her to study motivation and its effects on creativity. Teresa emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation and reflects on how extrinsic factors can sometimes bolster creativity, sharing practical tips for teachers and administrators.
The episode also highlights Teresa's reflections on creativity within educational environments, stressing that creativity is not solely an individual trait but is significantly influenced by context. The discussion touches on her book "Creativity in Context" and explores how school environments can either nurture or stifle creative potential. Teresa advocates for a flexible, personalized approach to education, where students are encouraged to explore and play without the constraints of rigid, standardized assessments. Throughout the episode, Matthew and Cyndi explore these themes with Teresa, drawing valuable connections between research and practical application in educational settings.
Creativity in Context
About Dr. Teresa Amabile:
Dr. Teresa Amabile is a world-renowned expert in creativity research, with 50 years of groundbreaking work in the field. She is the Edsel Bryant Ford Professor, Emerita, at Harvard Business School and originally trained as a chemist before earning her Ph.D. in psychology from Stanford University. Her research has explored the intersection of creativity, motivation, and the work environment, shaping how we understand and foster innovation. Dr. Amabile is the author of several influential books, including Growing Up Creative, Creativity in Context, The Progress Principle, and most recently, Retiring: Creating a Life that Works for You, as well as over 100 research articles and scholarly chapters. Her work continues to inspire educators, leaders, and organizations to cultivate environments that nurture creativity and innovation.
Eager to bring more creativity into your school district?
Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect!
Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education!
For more information on Creativity in Education, check out:
Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom
Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

The Five Ps of Technology and Learning with Dr. Leo Burd

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Can technology truly foster creativity and social change, or does it sometimes hinder the freedom to explore and express?
In this episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Cyndi Burnett and Matthew Worwood delve into the role of technology in creative education with guest Dr. Leo Burd from MIT's Media Lab. Leo discusses the concept of technology fluency as opposed to merely learning about technology itself, emphasizing its critical understanding and meaningful application in life. He shares his journey from Sao Paulo, Brazil, where he was inspired by stark social inequalities and sought to use technology as a tool for empowerment.
The conversation covers the challenges and successes of the Brazilian Creative Learning Network, where Scratch has been leveraged to promote creative learning rather than just technological skill. Additionally, Leo shares his insights into the four Ps of creative learning: Projects, Passion, Peers, and Play, with an added P of Purpose from Brazil's experience. Engage with this thought-provoking discussion that questions how technology, especially generative AI, can be integrated meaningfully into educational experiences without overshadowing the objective of learning.
Noteworthy Mentions:
Technology Fluency vs. Literacy: Understanding technology's impact and using it meaningfully.
Brazilian Creative Learning Network: Using Scratch to foster creative learning in Brazil.
Five Ps of Creative Learning:
Projects: Learning through creating tangible outcomes.
Passion: Engaging with personally meaningful projects.
Peers: Collaborative environments promoting idea exchange.
Play: Encouraging playful, exploratory use of materials.
Purpose: Connecting learning with community and societal context.
Generative AI in Education: Challenges and potential as a tool for enhancing creative learning.
Guest Bio:
Dr. Leo Burd is a researcher at MIT's Media Lab, focusing on designing technologies that empower marginalized communities. With a background in computer science and a passion for civic engagement, Leo has spearheaded numerous initiatives that harness digital tools for social impact. His work in participatory design, education, and grassroots innovation is shaping a future where technology serves as a force for equity and empowerment. Raised in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Leo's journey into technology's transformative power began amidst societal inequalities, driving his dedication to fostering a more inclusive digital age.
 
Eager to bring more creativity into your school district?
Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect!
Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education!
For more information on Creativity in Education, check out:
Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom
Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

Nature Knows Best: Teaching Creativity Through Biomimicry with Billy Almon

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How can observing a simple creature lead to groundbreaking innovations in education and technology?
In this engaging episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, co-hosts Matthew Worwood and Cyndi Burnett dive into a compelling conversation with Billy Almon, an astrobiofuturist and expert in biomimicry. Billy shares his unique journey from a disruptive "D student" to a creative leader in STEM education, highlighting how curiosity and non-traditional thinking can transform learning experiences. He discusses the power of biomimicry—drawing inspiration from nature to solve human challenges—by detailing how educators can leverage natural observations to encourage creativity and innovation in students. Billy also introduces his Dream and Adapt framework, emphasizing the potential to achieve big dreams by recognizing possibilities within our current realities. Throughout the episode, Billy's vibrant anecdotes and passion for mixing science with creativity shine, inspiring educators to see the natural world as a vast library of solutions waiting to be discovered.
Noteworthy Mentions:
Billy Almon's backstory as a "D student" with a creative edge.
The concept of biomimicry: Imitating nature to solve human problems.
How educators can use natural observations to spark student curiosity.
The Dream and Adapt framework for recognizing potential in existing realities.
Personal story of learning from an otter's scat as a creative learning moment.
Encouragement to incorporate more nature-based observations in classrooms.
 
About Billy Almon
Billy Almon is an astrobiofuturist and a leader in the field of biomimicry, design, and storytelling. With a background as a former creative director at Walt Disney Imagineering, Billy has a rich history of applying creative and natural insights to education and innovation. He is also the co-host of "Little Giants" on Animal Planet and Discovery Plus. Through his work, Billy empowers educators and students to reimagine learning via creativity, curiosity, and world-building, aiming to inspire the next generation to tackle real-world challenges with bold and big ideas.
 
Eager to bring more creativity into your school district?
Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect!
Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education!
For more information on Creativity in Education, check out:
Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom
Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education

DEBRIEF 10(3): Opportunities, Metacognition, and the Importance of Sleep

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In this mid-season debrief episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education podcast, hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood reflect on the past three interviews that brought a diverse set of perspectives on fostering creativity within educational spaces. They revisit key moments with Jamie Celia Tosi from the National Inventors Hall of Fame, Jaap Haartsen—the inventor of Bluetooth, Dr. Jo Boaler from Stanford University, and Buffalo public school teacher Jonathan Guerra. The hosts discuss topics ranging from the fusion of creativity skills with domain expertise, the importance of providing students real opportunities to invent and problem-solve, and the practicalities of applying creativity in both large and small classroom moments. They emphasize that creativity training should go hand-in-hand with meaningful experiences, and introduce actionable ideas for educators aiming to incorporate creative learning into everyday teaching.
The conversation also delves deep into the role of metacognition, as highlighted by Dr. Boaler, and why teaching students to think about their thinking is crucial—particularly in an age of rapid technological change and the rise of generative AI. Cyndi and Matthew further explore issues of student well-being, such as the impact of sleep and trauma on learning and creativity, and the essential need for psychological safety in the classroom. Through anecdotes and research connections, they underline the importance of mentorship and personalized support, making a strong case for educators to recognize contextual factors that affect a student’s readiness to engage creatively. With season ten halfway through, the hosts tease upcoming initiatives and encourage feedback as they continue building a community committed to enriching educational practice through creativity.
 
Eager to bring more creativity into your school district?
Check out our sponsor Curiosity2Create.org and join their Creativity Network for Educators at Curiosity2Connect!
Check out our Podcast Website to dive deeper into Creativity in Education!
For more information on Creativity in Education, check out:
Matt's Website: Worwood Classroom
Cyndi's Website: Creativity and Education