Can teachers truly be creative if they’re told exactly what tools to use—and how to use them?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Fueling Creativity in Education Podcast, hosts Dr. Cyndi Burnett and Dr. Matthew Worwood welcome Dr. Punya Mishra, Associate Dean of Scholarship and Innovation at Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. Dr. Mishra delves deep into the concept of “teachers as designers,” drawing on the foundational design theories of Herb Simon and his own background in engineering and design. He explains how teachers, much like designers, operate in complex, ambiguous environments where creativity, improvisation, and reflection in action are essential. Dr. Mishra introduces listeners to the TPACK framework, highlighting the intersections between content, pedagogy, technology, and context, and discusses how educators can transform everyday tools—from textbooks to cell phones—into powerful vehicles for creative learning.

The conversation expands into the pressing challenges and opportunities presented by technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in today’s classrooms. Dr. Mishra shares both his excitement and concerns about AI, emphasizing the importance of teacher agency, the risks of top-down, one-size-fits-all edtech solutions, and the need to recognize the implicit learning theories embedded in every technology. He offers examples of AI as a creative partner in both the classroom and his personal creative pursuits, while also warning about issues like bias and over-reliance on technology-generated content. The episode closes with Dr. Mishra’s personal reflections on transformative learning experiences, the vital role of teacher creativity, and a call to retain a critical, questioning stance as technology continues to reshape education.

Dr. Punya Mishra is Associate Dean of Scholarship and Innovation at Arizona State University's Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. He wears many hats—learning engineer, professor, researcher, author, artist, and designer—and his research explores how creativity, design, and technology intersect to transform education. Known for his engaging talks and prolific scholarship, Punya inspires educators to embrace innovation while staying firmly rooted in the art and science of teaching. He believes in empowering teachers as creative professionals and gives voice to the importance of context, flexibility, and genuine care in shaping meaningful learning experiences.

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