Creative metacognition: Integrating higher order cognition and psychological insights with creativity

Abstract

Metacognition, the ability to reflect on and regulate one’s thinking, plays a crucial role in creative processes. Creative metacognition combines metacognitive knowledge and procedures with creative thinking, providing a dynamic platform for problem-solving, innovation, and insight generation. This paper explores the intersection of creativity and metacognition, particularly through the lens of Alan Baddeley's working memory model. The exploration delves into the role of the central executive, the phonological loop, the visuospatial sketchpad, and the episodic buffer in facilitating creative thinking and metacognitive regulation. Further, the paper draws connections between creative metacognition and Indian philosophical concepts, particularly Advaita Vedanta and the concept of Nidhidhyasana, offering a deeper perspective on introspection and the creative regulation of knowledge.