In this episode, we talk to Phil and Luice from the Learning and Engagement Team at The Henry Ford. We discuss research that indicates that humans are innately innovative, especially in difficult situations. Yet innovation tends to happen in clusters in specific locations in the U.S. So why is that? Is there a key that might unlock greater opportunities? How might educators harness the habits of an innovator to unleash the innovator in all of their students? This, and a special preview of a new Michigan Virtual podcast on this episode of the Digital Backpack.

Here are some notes about the episode:

• Phil’s virtual background during our conversation was a photo of the Dymaxion House Exhibit at The Henry Ford Museum.


• Luci mentioned that her first virtual background she was displaying during our conversation was a photo of the clocktower, which is part of the museum building at The Henry Ford. The photo was taken from Greenfield Village during the Holiday Nights celebration in December 2020. Behind the Scenes: A View from the Clocktower.


• Luci changed her background to a picture of the Intersection of Innovation exhibit at The Henry Ford.


• Who Becomes an Inventor in America? The Importance of Exposure to Innovation - Cited by Lucie as a major research basis for the Learning and Engagement Team's work.


• inHub | Innovative Curricula and Learning Resources for Educators. Why inHub? - inHub's Mission Empower all learners to activate their innovative mindset to help build a better future. Create a virtual venue & educational community that extends The Henry Ford’s mission impact beyond our physical boundaries by leveraging advancements in our continuing digital transformation efforts. 


• Model i framework - Features lesson plans centered on the Actions for grades 3-12.


• At the end of this episode is a preview of a new podcast from Michigan Virtual called BRIGHT: Stories of Hope & Innovation in Michigan Classrooms. Be sure to check it out and subscribe!