Creativity and Critical Pedagogy in Education - (Emerald Points) by Upasha Kumari & Arpan Yagnik (Hardcover)

About the Book

Creativity and Critical Pedagogy in Education is a bold call to reimagine education as a powerful force that shapes learners into Socially Conscious Individuals (SCIs).

Book Synopsis

Creativity and Critical Pedagogy in Education is a bold call to reimagine education as a powerful force that shapes learners into Socially Conscious Individuals (SCIs). At its heart is the CritiCreative Communication Framework (CCCF), a dynamic, learner-centered model where creativity and critical pedagogy come together to nurture socially sensitive, reflective, and ethically grounded minds.

Rooted in Indian philosophy and aligned with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the book reimagines the classroom as a collaborative space for growth. The CCCF offers a timely response to the crisis of character in today's society.

One of the book's most innovative contributions is Creative Aerobics, a series of mental exercises designed to promote holistic brain development. The authors also explore the Four Ps of Creativity - Place, Person, Product, and Process, and integrate them with a structured and accessible approach to critical pedagogy.

This book offers practical strategies to develop self-awareness, empathy, critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. A valuable resource for educators and changemakers, it champions character, creativity, and consciousness in education.

Review Quotes

Creativity and Critical Pedagogy in Education is a timely and inspiring guide that challenges us to think bigger and teach deeper. The CritiCreative Communication Framework and Creative Aerobics offer a beautifully human, whole-brain approach to learning that ignites curiosity, empathy, and purpose.

This book doesn't just aim to inform educators--it empowers them to shape a generation of thoughtful, socially conscious changemakers. A must-read for every teacher who believes that education should open minds and change lives.

--Gavin McCormack, Montessori Australia Ambassador & Co-Founder of Upschool.co

The book is a compelling reading with strong argument for result-oriented outcome in revamping the present education delivery system. It is high time the educators, policy makers and all stakeholders in charge of designing contents and teaching methods by revisiting their conventional approach and reorient the fertile minds of the young generation with the long-term goal to create a better society than the present. A MUST-READ for all educationists.

--Professor Rajaram Panda, Senior International Relations specialist with expertise in Japan's politics, security, strategic affairs, culture and society

The book masterfully presents the CCCF model--rooted in Indian philosophy and aligned with NEP 2020--blending creativity and critical pedagogy with innovative tools like Creative Aerobics to cultivate socially conscious, empathetic, and critically aware individuals.

--K. Jaya, Senior Humanities Facilitator, Convent of Jesus & Mary School, New Delhi

About the Author

Upasha Kumari is an Education and Public Policy Specialist based in New Delhi, India. She brings extensive experience in teacher training, academic administration, curriculum design and evaluation across schools, NGOs, and think tanks, with a focus on education, gender equity, and peacebuilding. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Political Science, furthering her research to advance transformative education and policy.

Arpan Yagnik is an international Creativity and Fear Coach and Consultant. He is a Columnist, TEDx speaker and a faculty member at Penn State University, USA. He is the author of multiple books and a renowned speaker. He served as a Commissioner on the Pennsylvania Governor's Commission. He advocates for menstrual hygiene management, and issues in youth pertaining to fear and declining mental well-being.