What strategies can help promote metacognitive skills in students?

Promoting metacognitive skills in students involves helping them become aware of their own learning processes and equipping them with strategies to regulate and improve their understanding. The correct choice emphasizes the importance of having students set learning goals and self-evaluate, which are fundamental components of metacognition.

When students set specific, achievable learning goals, they develop a clearer understanding of what they are striving to accomplish in their learning. This process encourages them to think about their desired outcomes and the steps they need to take to achieve those outcomes. Self-evaluation further allows students to reflect on their performance, assess whether their strategies are effective, and identify areas for improvement. By engaging in these practices, students cultivate a greater awareness of their thought processes and learning strategies, helping them become more independent and effective learners.

In contrast, strategies such as memorization, focusing solely on grades, and providing passive learning opportunities do not foster metacognitive skills. Memorization can make students reliant on rote learning rather than critical thinking and self-regulation. An emphasis on grades can shift their focus away from the learning process and intrinsic motivation, reducing their engagement with their own learning strategies. Passive learning opportunities limit students' active engagement and critical reflection, which are essential for developing metacognitive awareness.