Metacognition is ‘thinking about thinking’. It involves self-awareness about your cognitive processes and controlling them to improve learning. Self-regulated learning (SRL) is a component of metacognition that focuses on the self-directive process by which learners transform their mental abilities into academic skills.
Planning
Before commencing a study session, outline what you want to achieve and how you will go about it.
Monitoring
During the study session, keep track of your understanding and adjust your strategies if you find certain concepts difficult to grasp.
Evaluating
After studying, reflect on the effectiveness of the strategies used and the level of understanding achieved.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Problem-solving and critical thinking are essential skills that enable you to apply knowledge in various situations. Developing these skills involves:
Identifying the Problem
Clearly define the problem you are trying to solve.
Generating Solutions
Brainstorm multiple solutions before selecting the most effective one.
Evaluating Outcomes
After implementing a solution, assess its effectiveness and learn from the experience.
To enhance critical thinking, question assumptions, assess the validity of arguments, and make reasoned judgments.