EduTech Asia 2024: Metacognition is ‘a game-changer for learning’

Speaking at this year’s EduTech Asia conference in Singapore, Raquel Thomson, Deputy Head of Primary at Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong, highlighted the transformative potential of metacognition in teaching and learning.  

Metacognition, which refers to the awareness of ourselves and our own thinking, is a process which involves reflection, management and application of key life skills, and is at the heart of Nord Anglia’s education strategy.  

At the event earlier this month, Thomson explained metacognition’s impact on learning, including how it boosts students’ achievement, improves communication skills, and supports their overall cognitive development to achieve success in their academic and social lives.  

“Metacognition is a game-changer for learning,” said Thomson. “Through our global research project with Boston College, we’re discovering that students who develop metacognitive skills are far better prepared learners and problem solvers. Students who understand how they think best, and why, have an incredible skillset to draw from throughout their personal and professional lives.”  

Thomson’s talk also covered the metacognition teaching and learning practices used at Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong, as well as data showing the progress in students’ metacognitive development.  

Nord Anglia’s education research projects are led by Dr Kate Erricker, Group Head of Education Research, who said: “Raquel is one of the first Nord Anglia teachers to present our pioneering work on metacognition on a global stage. We're extremely proud to be able to share insights directly from a Nord Anglia teacher with like-minded innovative educators across the world.”  

EduTech Asia is an annual event that brings together educators, policymakers, and industry leaders from around the world to exchange ideas and explore innovative approaches to education.