Creativity and Transdisciplinary Thinking Skills Among Exceptional Teachers

• In Event: Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: Examining Teacher Research and Classroom Practice

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a qualitative study on the creative tendencies and creative thinking modes of exceptional teachers. Specifically, we focus on teachers who have won the “National Teacher of the Year” award. Eight award-winning teachers were interviewed in depth about creativity in their teaching practices, as well as their overall creative avocations and interests - with a focus on how these connect. We describe the phenomena of trans-disciplinary thinking skills and consider how these cognitive/creative skills influences the work of exceptional teachers. Interview data from these nationally-recognized classroom teachers provides insight into how creativity plays an integral role in the pursuits and outside interests of accomplished teachers, and how this translates into successful teaching practice.

Authors

• Punya Mishra, Michigan State University

• Danah A. Henriksen, Michigan State University