Metacognition

Regulating the cognitive processes used in learning and understanding

Is a sub-component of the larger concept of Self-regulation and Strategic Learning

Metacognition involves:

Self-knowledge

Strategy knowledge

Task knowledge

Cognitive goal setting

Strategy selection

Monitoring and adjusting of learning strategies

Example: What about yourself did you take into consideration when you studied for the test?

What were some alternative study strategies that you could possibly have used?

What did you know about the test specifically or tests in general that affected your study choices?

How Metacognition Develops

Increasingly realistic appraisal of memory

Increasing use of effective strategies

More self-monitoring with age

More self-awareness with age

Epistemological beliefs

Are what we mean by “knowing something”

Certainty of knowledge

Structure of knowledge

Source of knowledge

Speed of learning

Nature of learning abilities

Example of a theory

Perry’s theory

Dualism

Multiplistic

Relativism

Relativism with Commitment

Implications for instruction at the college level