Metacognitive Training and Mathematical Cognition: The Effects on Self-Efficacy and Academic Performance

Alexios Kouzalis

Authors

Alexios Kouzalis RUDN University

Keywords:

Metacognition, Mathematical cognition, Metacognitive training, Self-efficacy, Academic performance

Abstract

Background: Metacognition, defined as the awareness and regulation of one’s cognitive processes, plays a crucial role in learning and problem solving. In mathematics education, metacognitive training is essential for improving learners’ ability to manage thinking processes and enhance performance. However, previous studies often examine metacognition separately from mathematical cognition, self-efficacy, and academic performance, indicating a lack of integrative understanding.

Aims: This narrative literature review aims to examine the relationships among metacognition, mathematical cognition, self-efficacy, and academic performance. It also explores how metacognitive training contributes to self-regulated learning and investigates the neurocognitive mechanisms underlying mathematical cognition.

Methods: A structured literature search was conducted across major academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using relevant keywords. A total of 48 peer-reviewed studies were selected, with approximately 50% published within the last five years to ensure recency.

Results: The thematic synthesis identified five major themes: (1) metacognitive training and self-efficacy, (2) metacognition and self-regulation, (3) mathematical performance, (4) mathematical operations and task complexity, and (5) neural correlates of mathematical cognition. The findings show that metacognitive training enhances planning, monitoring, and evaluation processes, improves mathematical accuracy and efficiency, and strengthens self-efficacy as a mediating factor.

Conclusion: Metacognition functions as a central mechanism linking cognitive, affective, and behavioral aspects of learning. Integrating structured metacognitive training into educational practices is essential to improve mathematical performance and promote sustainable learning outcomes.

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