A Mixed Method Study on Exploring the Effects of Incorporating Meta cognitive Strategies in a Web-Enhanced Learning Environment in a Traditional Pakistani Classroom at Secondary Level

Abstract

The focus of this research was to investigate the effects of using meta-cognitive prompts incorporated into a reflective and analytical web-based learning experience. The purpose of the research study was to examine: (a) difference in pre-test and post-test achievement amongst students who experienced meta-cognitive learning in problems based on geographical inquiry and those who didn’t; (b) differences in attitudes towards problem- solving between students prior to and after receiving meta-cognitive prompts in geography problem sets; (c) students’ perceptions after the intervention and (d) teachers’ perceptions of web-based problem sets based on meta-cognitive cues. The selected 68 participants were enrolled in a traditional private school. The control group was provided instructions on the concerned topics in a traditional manner. Inclass instructions involved facilitation on using the software. The intervention lasted a week. Initially, a pre-test was conducted and the student scores were recorded. Examination of pre-test and post-test results revealed significant differences between the two groups. Mixed method design was used to evaluate perceptions of stakeholders and data was gathered using questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and pre-post test results. The attitudes of students towards problem-solving were evaluated. This involved planning, monitoring, and evaluating learning whilst approaching the content and applying it to problems. Pre- and post testing of the participants’ self-reported perceptions, regarding their problem-solving abilities, were measured through an instrument. The results indicated that the participants’ of the experiment group reported a change of approach towards problem-solving after the intervention. It was concluded that meta-cognitive strategies, embedded as cues in a web-based learning environment, had significant impact on overall problem-solving approach of students.