Metacognition, Formative Assessment, and Student Perspective: Learning About Metacognition Through In-Class Comparison of Response Systems.

PURPOSE: Educators influence learning context through, among other things, triadic reciprocal causation-a behavioral model used in social cognitive theory. Eliciting responses from learners during instruction may contribute to learning by engaging their metacognition. In this study, metacognition was examined based on learners' experience with 2 different polling methods: student response systems (SRS), commonly known as "clickers," and a low-technology response system (LTRS), where students raise labeled signs, each with a different response. Scale item results are reported.

METHODS: Scales measuring the influence of metacognition from polling methods were administered, following treatment (SRS) and comparison method (LTRS), to first-year physician assistant (PA) students (n = 54). Statistical tests of significance and effect size for each item were compared.

RESULTS: Performance outcomes suggest that the SRS enhances learning experiences more than low-technology polling. Self-reported surveys indicate that self-monitoring, note-taking, and understanding during lectures are significantly improved with the use of clickers. Peer and social comparison items did not demonstrate significance collectively, but survey results indicate that candidates compared themselves to their peers significantly more with the LTRS than with the SRS.

CONCLUSION: Findings support the practice of using an electronic SRS to poll PA students and enhance learning.