Metacognition refers to the awareness and understanding of one's own thought processes. In the classroom, metacognitive strategies can significantly enhance a student's ability to learn and retain information by encouraging them to think about how they learn best, plan their tasks, and reflect on their learning experiences. There is a lot of evidence to suggest that children with good metacognitive awareness and skills, have better educational outcomes.
This article explores the application of Kolb's Learning Cycle and the importance of planning learning activities to foster metacognitive skills in students. If you'd like to share details on this with parents - you can show them the article on this link.
Kolb’s Learning Cycle is a model that outlines the process of learning as a continuous cycle of four stages: Concrete Experience, Reflective Observation, Abstract Conceptualisation, and Active Experimentation. This model helps students understand their learning processes and encourages them to engage with each stage to deepen their understanding and improve their learning outcomes.
How this helps
By guiding students through Kolb’s Learning Cycle, teachers can help them become more reflective and intentional learners. The cycle encourages students to actively engage with their learning experiences, think critically about what they have learned, and apply this knowledge in new situations.
How to Go Through the Cycle
Concrete Experience
Encourage students to engage fully in new learning experiences. This could involve hands-on activities, group discussions, or real-life problem-solving tasks that allow them to immerse themselves in the material.
Reflective Observation
After completing a learning activity, ask students to reflect on what they did. Encourage them to consider what worked well, what didn’t, and why. This reflection helps them identify their learning strengths and areas for improvement.
Abstract Conceptualisation
Guide students in connecting their experiences with broader concepts. Encourage them to think about how their experience relates to what they already know and how they can apply these concepts to new situations.
Active Experimentation
Encourage students to test out new ideas based on what they’ve learned. This could involve experimenting with different approaches to a task or applying their knowledge in a new context. This stage reinforces learning through practical application.
Planning Learning
Planning learning activities involves discussing with students how they will approach their tasks, how they will monitor their progress, and how they will evaluate their success. This metacognitive strategy helps students develop a structured approach to learning, making it easier for them to manage their workload and stay focused on their goals.
How this helps
By teaching students to plan their learning, teachers can help them become more independent and self-regulated learners. Planning encourages students to think ahead, set realistic goals, and reflect on their progress, which can lead to more effective and efficient learning. You might want to even look at using a planner like the one below.
Practical Implementation
Before Learning
Discuss with students how they plan to tackle a task. Ask them to consider what materials they will need, what strategies they will use, and what their goals are for the task. Encourage them to set clear, achievable objectives.
During Learning
Encourage students to monitor their progress as they work. Ask them to consider whether their strategies are effective and if they need to adjust their approach. This helps them stay on track and make necessary changes in real-time.
After Learning:
After completing a task, ask students to reflect on how it went. Discuss what strategies worked well, what challenges they faced, and what they could do differently next time. This reflection helps reinforce learning and prepares them for future tasks.