What is the definition of metacognition?

Metacognition refers to the awareness and understanding of one’s own thought processes. It involves a higher level of thinking where individuals not only engage in thinking but also reflect on how they think, learn, and process information. This concept encompasses skills such as self-regulation, self-awareness, and critical reflection on cognitive strategies. By being aware of their thought processes, individuals can adjust their learning strategies to become more effective learners.

This skill is crucial in an educational setting as it enables learners to evaluate their understanding and monitor their comprehension, leading to better problem-solving and decision-making abilities. It goes beyond simply learning new information; it encourages deeper engagement with content and the development of more effective personal learning strategies. Thus, "thinking about thinking" encapsulates the essence of metacognition.