In this episode, Dr. Sawyer talks with Professor Danah Henriksen of Arizona State University. Dr. Henriksen and Dr. Sawyer are the co-authors of the book Explaining Creativity: The Science of Human Innovation, published by Oxford University Press in 2024. Dr. Henriksen is an expert on creativity and teaching. She is a top scientist who does rigorous studies of creativity. She’s published well over a hundred scientific journal articles, book chapters, and academic presentations. Dr. Henriksen studies the seven habits of mind of exceptional creators, with a special focus on teaching, technology, and design thinking. Her research shows that the most creative people engage in multiple different activities and disciplines—for example, a scientist who performs jazz piano. Today’s conversation ranges widely over a broad range of topics related to technology, education, and creativity.

Chapters:

(0:00) Welcome

(1:00) Dr. Danah Henriksen Introduction

(2:29) Interview

(10:46) Online teaching at ASU

(12:20) Exceptional teachers

(18:58) Transdisciplinary thinking

(20:23) Wide range of interests

(24:30) Habits of mind

(32:56) Design thinking

(39:30) Teachers as designers

(45:40) Experience design

(50:36) Remote learning

(57:33) Technology and creativity

(1:00:50) Advice for next week

For more information:

www.danah-henriksen.com

Music by license from SoundStripe:

"Uptown Lovers Instrumental" by AFTERNOONZ
"Miss Missy" by AFTERNOONZ
"What's the Big Deal" by Ryan Saranich

Danah Henriksen: The Creative Power of Transdisciplinary Thinking