DEBRIEFING School Vouchers, Learning to See, and Personalized Feedback

Is it time to completely tear down the education system and start over if we truly want creativity to thrive in our schools?

In the first debrief episode of Season 11, hosts Cyndi Burnett and Matthew Worwood take a reflective dive into insights from their most recent three guests on the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast. The discussion begins with Dr. Henry Smith from Johns Hopkins University, who explored the intersection of creativity and education policy, notably discussing the controversial topic of school vouchers and advocating for a revolutionary approach to education reform—“tearing down the house” to build a truly creative system from the ground up. Cyndi and Matt examine both the promise and concerns of vouchers, especially their impact on equity, and tease an upcoming episode on micro-schools that further expands the conversation.

The hosts then turn to classroom creativity with Emily Jamison, an elementary teacher known for fostering a family-like atmosphere and utilizing clever, agency-giving feedback strategies to empower students. They reflect on the importance of playful, positive feedback—even down to students choosing the color of their feedback pen—and discuss how creating a safe, supportive environment nurtures creative expression at any grade level. Wrapping up, Cyndi and Matt share their takeaways from an interview with renowned creativity researcher Dr. Keith Sawyer, unpacking ideas from his latest book, "Learning to See." They discuss the importance of perspective in creativity, the value of “studio talk” for reflection and creative growth, and creative exercises—like photographic challenges—that can deepen both student engagement and teacher understanding. The episode closes with personal stories, anticipatory teasers for future guests, and a fun nod to trying new things—even learning to “shuffle” on YouTube!

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