M e t a c o g n i t i v e E d u c a t i o n A n d R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s Fo r P a r e n t s
Chinese teacher Li Haiyan gives her
students a taste of Chinese culture.
What do you understand by metacognitive
education? How could Keystone implement such
an approach?
Pei Lu: I believe that metacognitive education, if offered by the school, could
improve our students’ learning approaches. In my class, I would encourage
students to take the initiative to reflect upon learning outcomes after each
assignment. This would be a useful tool in their self-improvement process in
the future.
Thom Ferlisi: In the U.S., 38 of the 50 states follow the Common Core State
Standards. These are skills students should have by the time they graduate
high school, and metacognition is one of them. So I have been working on
getting my students to always explain how they got their answers. This helps
them understand concepts better and identify patterns across subjects. But
for metacognitive education, I think grade 1 students are too young to discuss
culturally varied learning and teaching approaches.
Li Haiyan: I would first lay down the educational goals for my students that are in
line with their different characteristics and levels, then consciously develop and
hone their self-control and self-reflection abilities through lessons and school
activities as they work towards those goals. During this continuous learning and
training process, we adults will also periodically reflect on our own progress,
recognize our strengths and weaknesses, and clarify our own goals, thereby
achieving personal growth.
How could parents employ metacognitive approaches
to support their child’s learning at home?
Pei Lu: Firstly, I would suggest that parents help their children understand that
they should take the initiative to learn. Secondly, parents should try to shift
their focus from grades to learning approaches; they should be patient and
endeavor to grow with their children.
Thom Ferlisi: As we continue to explore what it means to teach and learn in
a bilingual school, we ask that parents work with us in offering ideas, and
be part of the team to make this a success.
Li Haiyan: Students could learn more about the concepts and principles
of education, and know more about the courses they are enrolled in and
the cultural differences. Additionally, as they review their work periodically,
and reflect on their progress, the students should formulate an effect