What does the term “metacognition” refer to?

The term "metacognition" refers to awareness of one's own thought processes. This concept involves not just thinking about what one knows but also being conscious of how one thinks and learns. Metacognition includes self-regulation and self-awareness about cognitive strategies and can enhance learning by enabling individuals to monitor and control their own understanding and performance. By reflecting on their thinking, learners can make adjustments to their strategies, leading to improved problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This understanding allows students to engage more deeply with the material and fosters a more effective learning environment.