Better upon reflection: building metacognitive habits ONE card at a time
Design and engineering competitions, as well as classroom-based and independent research experiences, challenge students in a number of ways. Preparing for team competitions and conducting undergraduate research has been shown to build important skills that translate into classroom and workplace success. Given that time is often limited, focusing on immediate goal(s) is often prioritized, leaving little or no time for reflection about other skills that will serve students long after the competition is over, or the research experience ends. That is where the metacognition card games come in. By providing opportunities for self-discovery and team-building, the cards provide teams and classes with a way to both prepare for the competition and/or final presentation, and hone skills that will continue to serve them well.
The set of metacognition cards are designed to strengthen habits that can improve performance in any domain. Each card offers a fun way for students to reflect on their own learning and how they might make adjustments to learn more effectively. This process, called 'metacognition,' has been shown to improve student success in many ways, including improvements in reading comprehension, critical thinking, academic performance, communication, and problem-solving. These gains are not surprising, given that metacognitive people:
- set goals
- plan for success
- monitor their progress
- look at problems from different angles
- recognize when adjustments are needed
- ask for guidance
- persist through challenges
- engage in creative problem-solving
As students play the card game, they reflect on a wide range of situations and notice patterns around what is working, what isn't, and when they need to make adjustments. Being metacognitive need not mean that students must be hyperaware all the time. Rather, those with metacognitive habits become aware of their goals and their methods so they can check-in as conditions merit. Metacognition skills include developing an awareness of when check-ins are important and how to make meaningful adjustments. These skills can help students appreciate the need for learning new techniques and how to acquire them. Like other skills, developing metacognition takes time and ongoing practice. The cards offer a fun way to practice.
Suggestions for Playing the Metacognitive Card Game
To request the card game, please fill out the form below
Thank for your interest in playing and helping us refine our metacognitive cards. If you are accepted to participate, you receive a deck of cards and the opportunity to play as an individual and with your team. Please note that this opportunity is only available to U.S. institutions.