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Creativity & the agency beast

Writer's picture: MattMatt

Technology has long been an integral part of modern education, but its true potential lies beyond merely simplifying or ‘digitising’ tasks. Substitution… Yes, it still happens a lot!


When used thoughtfully, technology opens doors to creativity and innovation, empowering students to think critically and express themselves in meaningful ways.


From Task to Creativity

In many 2025 classrooms, technology is still often used to replicate traditional tasks. Students create slideshows instead of posters, type documents instead of handwriting them, or produce short videos as digital versions of oral presentations. While these activities demonstrate basic technological competence, they seldom tap into the deeper potential of creative learning.


The real power of technology lies in its ability to transform routine assignments into opportunities for innovation and redefinition. Consider how combining multimodal aspects of storytelling may convey a more captivating message for readers. Redefining a learning approach not only engages students more deeply but also equips them with a range of skills—such as critical thinking, design, and communication—that can be applied across the board.


By shifting the focus from simply completing required tasks to creating unique and meaningful work, educators can inspire students to use digital technologies as tools for exploration and expression. This mindset fosters a sense of curiosity and ownership, encouraging students to push boundaries and experiment with new ideas. As a result, technology becomes not just a means to an end but a catalyst for creativity and innovation in learning.


Student Voice

“Here is a task, please go and complete it so I can assess it. It fits the curriculum requirements.”


One of the most powerful aspects of technology in education—and one that is seldom valued—is its ability to amplify student voice. By providing a range of tools and platforms, technology can cater to diverse learning styles and abilities, ensuring every student finds a medium that suits their strengths and interests. This differentiation is key to fostering engagement and self-expression. It is ubiquitous and, in 2025, so easily available. What’s missing? Purpose.


Beyond individual expression, technology tools and platforms enable students to share their work meaningfully with broader audiences—from local communities to global networks. Platforms such as social media, YouTube, podcast channels, and even online multimodal books offer spaces where students can publish their creations and receive feedback. This real-world audience fosters accountability, builds confidence, and motivates students to produce high-quality work.


So instead, let’s try:

“Here’s a problem for us to solve—please create a solution to share on a public platform. How exciting that others will get to see your work! It does meet curriculum requirements and I will need to assess it, though we won’t make that our focus. Have fun!”





In 2025, we should have long since moved past creating PowerPoints or typing Word documents. We have so many options at our disposal and platforms to share on. Navigating these for the benefit of high-quality student learning should be given the value it deserves.

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