Metacognition in science learning: knowing what one does not know or does not understand
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1590/S1678-4634202349250081Keywords:
Metacognitive knowledge, Learning of science, Ignorance, IncomprehensionAbstract
This work deals with metacognitive knowledge in science teaching and learning. In particular, the role of students’ knowledge about what they do not know about science curriculum content is examined. After a brief introduction to the notion of metacognition, we analyze the role of conscious lack of knowledge and lack of understanding both in scientific research and in science learning in a school context. In particular, a characteristic of the role played by lack of knowledge and lack of understanding in science teaching is discussed: the monopoly that teachers have on what is not known and should be known. Then, we analyze two of the variables that influence the awareness of lack of knowledge and lack of understanding: knowledge of the subject and the source of the information provided. Studies are reviewed that show how the lack of knowledge leads to diffuse lack of knowledge, of a low quality. Also, other research is analyzed that relates characteristics of the information source, such as the credibility that students perceive in it, with the expression of difficulties in understanding this information. Finally, some conclusions and implications for science teaching are synthesized.
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