During a language course, there are many ways to incorporate metacognitive learning strategies in order to maximize language acquisition. One option is to create a pre-reading routine in which learners are asked to say or write one thing they hope to learn from the text, one thing they will look for in the text, and any initial questions they may have. This can then be followed by reflection activities, in which the students reflect on one (or more) things they learned, something interesting or new that they noticed, and any lingering questions or clarifications. In general, metacognitive strategies can be used to guide learning and check in on learner progress throughout the course.

Metacognition, the process of understanding one’s strengths and weaknesses as a learner, can help students become more effective learners. There are a number of good metacognition strategies one can use to succeed in graduate school. As there will be some big projects and papers throughout the semester, it would be helpful for learners to plan ahead and prioritize in order to avoid a chaotic situation at the end. If making plans was not a strength of the learner, one could also seek help from useful resources, like professors or their classmates. After years of education, everyone should have developed some strategies that bring success to learning.

As for cognitive learning during a language course, there are many strategies that can be used. Students can group new items that have similar meanings or sounds as a way of memorization. When they have trouble remembering them, they can also link them to certain images in their mind. If understanding meanings of words help them memorize better, they can translate words or sentences of a foreign language into their own language. As to go a little further, they can rehearse and repeat certain phrases on their own. Other strategies such as cognate recognition, deduction, induction and inferencing can allow students to speed up their learning and remembering as well. Finally, as in any other course, it is important to take notes, review and summarize what they study in class.

Possible Applications to success in learning in graduate school using metacognitive learning strategies combines a variety of different techniques that harbor strong practices in how individuals understand their own learning styles. Besides knowing what technique works best, be it note taking, reviewing, or organizing depending on each individuals needs, it is also important for graduate level students to understand that with the responsibility of putting metacognitive learning strategies into practice that they consider their well-being in the process of figuring out their best learning strategies.

By Chandra, Amy, Jerry and Danna.