| psychol. |
metacognitive skills (Metacognition refers to thinking about thinking, or the ability to become aware and conscious of our mental processes. It involves knowledge about the self and the world (person), as well as the nature of what we are trying to accomplish (task) and how we will accomplish it (strategy). Metacognition plays an important role (link is external) in most aspects of learning, including foreign language learning. For instance, learners with developed metacognitive skills are aware of their learning processes and are thus better able to regulate their learning. They learn more effectively by devising and implementing strategies (e.g. memorization) that are best suited for their tasks (e.g. learning new phrases and words) and learning goals (e.g. improve listening comprehension). This, in turn, positively influences not only learning outcomes and test performances, but also the learner’s motivation. Foreign language learners can develop their metacognitive skills by adapting a mentally active attitude towards the process of language learning. In other words, effective language learners not only rely on a variety of learning strategies such as repetitions, memorizations, listening comprehension, grammar drills, communication, but also monitor language comprehension and production, make use of prior linguistic and general knowledge, and ask questions for clarification. Alex_Odeychuk) |
