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What are Metacognitive Skills?

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Summary

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Metacognitive skills are like a brain’s “thinking tools.” They help kids think about their own thinking to learn and solve problems better.

Frequently Asked Question

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Can metacognitive skills be taught?

Yes, through guided practice, reflection, and targeted activities, children can be taught and encouraged to develop and strengthen their metacognitive abilities.

How do metacognitive skills differ from cognitive skills?

While cognitive skills are related to gaining knowledge and understanding, metacognitive skills involve understanding and regulating one’s own thought processes.

At what age can children start developing metacognitive skills?

Children can start showing signs of metacognition as early as preschool, and these skills continue to develop and mature throughout adolescence and into adulthood.

Are metacognitive skills related to academic success?

Yes, strong metacognitive skills often lead to better academic outcomes, as they enable students to effectively plan, monitor, and adjust their learning strategies, leading to more efficient study habits and deeper understanding.

Scientific Definition

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Metacognitive skills refer to the higher-order abilities that enable individuals to be aware of, understand, and control their cognitive processes. This encompasses the ability to plan, monitor, and evaluate one’s own learning and problem-solving strategies, thereby optimizing the effectiveness and efficiency of one’s cognitive performance.

Real World Example of Metacognitive Skills

Meet Susie, a vibrant 8-year-old with a curious mind. Here’s how she flexes her metacognitive muscles in a day:

  • Planning: Susie’s about to tackle her homework. She thinks, “I’ll do my math first since it’s the toughest for me.”
  • Monitoring: She needs clarification about a character’s choice while reading a story. She pauses, asking herself, “Did I miss something earlier?”
  • Evaluating: After drawing a picture, she steps back and reflects, “What can I add to make this even better?”
  • Self-checking: Preparing for her soccer game, Susie thinks, “Have I packed everything I need?”

By consistently using her metacognitive skills, Susie’s better equipped to face challenges, make informed decisions, and grow daily.

 

How Do Metacognitive Skills Work?

Metacognitive skills are like a brain’s “control center” that guides learning and solving problems. They let kids recognize how they’re thinking and then adjust if needed.

  • Planning: A kid first finds all the edge pieces before starting a puzzle.
  • Monitoring: A child notices they’re lost while reading and rereads a confusing part.
  • Evaluating: After a math test, students reflect on what they did well and what they could do differently next time.
  • Self-checking: During a game, a kid thinks, “Is this move a good idea?”

Strong metacognitive skills help kids adapt and improve in various activities, making learning smoother. Goally is a tablet designed for kids, packed with fun apps that not only enhance life & language skills but also nurture metacognitive abilities through interactive activities like digital visual schedules, AAC, gamified learning, and skills training videos.