# That's So Meta(cognitive)! Review (2026): 8.5/10 · EDX · Free > Independent review of That's So Meta(cognitive)! on EDX. Rated 8.5/10 by our editorial team. Pros, cons, price, and top alternatives. Free to enroll. Certifi… Education & Teacher Training Courses That's So Meta(cognitive)! ![That's So Meta(cognitive)!](/api/media/file/hero/thats-so-metacognitive-course.jpg?width=800) # That's So Meta(cognitive)! Course — Review (8.5/10) This concise course introduces educators to foundational metacognitive strategies applicable in science instruction. It emphasizes practical classroom integration over theoretical depth. While brief, ... Explore This Course That's So Meta(cognitive)! is a 1 weeks online beginner-level course on EDX by The Smithsonian Institution that covers education & teacher training. This concise course introduces educators to foundational metacognitive strategies applicable in science instruction. It emphasizes practical classroom integration over theoretical depth. While brief, it offers actionable insights for improving student learning outcomes. Best suited for teachers new to metacognition. We rate it 8.5/10. ## Prerequisites No prior experience required. This course is designed for complete beginners in education & teacher training. ## Pros - Introduces essential metacognitive concepts clearly - Focuses on practical application in science classrooms - Free access lowers barrier to entry - Aligned with evidence-based teaching practices ## Cons - Very short duration limits depth - Lacks advanced or research-level content - No interactive teaching components ## That's So Meta(cognitive)! Course Review Platform: EDX Instructor: The Smithsonian Institution Updated Apr 23, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate ## What will you learn in That's So Meta(cognitive)! course - Understand what metacognition is and what strategies can be used to support student learning and achievement. - Learn about how to identify and measure different types of knowledge. - Identify metacognitive strategies used in teaching and application of these strategies in diverse settings. - Develop lesson plans for helping students use metacognitive strategies in science. ### Program Overview ### Module 1: Defining Metacognition in Science Education 1-2 weeks - Explore the role of self-awareness in science learning - Analyze how metacognition differs from rote memorization - Examine real classroom examples of metacognitive thinking ### Module 2: Measuring Knowledge Types and Cognitive Depth 1-2 weeks - Distinguish declarative, procedural, and conditional knowledge in science - Apply frameworks to assess student understanding levels - Design assessments targeting higher-order thinking skills ### Module 3: Metacognitive Strategies in Diverse Classrooms 1-2 weeks - Implement reflection techniques during science inquiry tasks - Adapt strategies for multilingual and inclusive settings - Use think-aloud protocols to model self-regulation ### Module 4: Designing Science Lessons with Metacognitive Scaffolds 1-2 weeks - Integrate planning and monitoring into lesson design - Create prompts that encourage self-assessment and revision - Align metacognitive goals with science standards ### Module 5: Implementing and Assessing Metacognitive Instruction 1-2 weeks - Evaluate effectiveness of strategy implementation in real time - Collect and interpret student self-reflection data - Adjust instruction based on metacognitive performance indicators ### Get certificate #### Job Outlook - Enhance teaching effectiveness in K–12 science classrooms - Support students in mastering complex scientific concepts - Meet professional development requirements for educator licensure ## Editorial Take This Smithsonian course on edX offers a succinct yet insightful entry point into metacognitive teaching strategies for science educators. Designed for practitioners, it emphasizes classroom-ready techniques over abstract theory. ### Standout Strengths - Practical Focus: Each module connects directly to classroom application, helping teachers implement metacognitive strategies immediately. The emphasis on science education ensures relevance for STEM instructors. - Clear Learning Outcomes: The course defines achievable goals such as developing lesson plans and identifying knowledge types. These outcomes align well with teacher training standards and professional development needs. - Research-Based Foundation: Grounded in cognitive science, the course presents metacognition as a tool for deeper learning. It encourages moving beyond rote memorization to foster critical thinking in students. - Accessibility: Being free to audit makes it highly accessible for educators worldwide. Teachers can explore evidence-based strategies without financial commitment or institutional support. - Concise Structure: The one-week format suits busy professionals seeking targeted learning. The brevity allows for quick completion while still delivering core insights on metacognitive instruction. - Institutional Credibility: Offered by the Smithsonian Institution, the course carries strong academic and cultural authority. This enhances trust and perceived value among educators and administrators. ### Honest Limitations - Short Duration: At just one week, the course cannot explore metacognition in depth. Learners seeking comprehensive training may find it too brief for sustained impact or mastery. - Limited Interactivity: As a self-paced audit course, it lacks peer discussions or instructor feedback. This reduces opportunities for collaborative learning and personalized growth. - Narrow Scope: Focused exclusively on science education, it may not fully transfer to other subjects. Educators in humanities or math may need to adapt concepts independently. - No Hands-On Practice: While lesson planning is a stated outcome, there is little guided practice or feedback. Learners must self-assess their implementation without structured support. ### How to Get the Most Out of It - Study cadence: Complete one module every two days to allow time for reflection. This pace supports integration of ideas into existing teaching practices. - Parallel project: Begin drafting a metacognitive lesson during the course. Apply each concept directly to your classroom context for immediate relevance. - Note-taking: Use a structured template to capture strategies and examples. Organize notes by module to build a personal teaching reference guide. - Community: Share insights with colleagues or online educator groups. Discussing applications amplifies learning and generates new ideas. - Practice: Implement one strategy per week after course completion. Gradual application ensures sustainable change in teaching methods. - Consistency: Revisit course materials monthly to reinforce key concepts. Regular review strengthens long-term retention and instructional fidelity. ### Supplementary Resources - Book: "Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning" complements the course with cognitive principles. It reinforces metacognitive strategies using real-world examples. - Tool: Use reflection journals or digital portfolios to track student metacognition. These tools help measure progress and inform instruction. - Follow-up: Enroll in longer pedagogy courses on edX or Coursera. Deepen expertise with programs focused on cognitive development or science education. - Reference: Explore resources from the National Science Teaching Association. They offer research and best practices aligned with metacognitive instruction. ### Common Pitfalls - Pitfall: Treating metacognition as an add-on rather than integrated practice. Success requires embedding strategies into daily routines, not isolated activities. - Pitfall: Overlooking student readiness for self-reflection. Younger or struggling learners may need scaffolding before engaging in metacognitive tasks. - Pitfall: Assuming one strategy fits all classrooms. Effective implementation requires adaptation based on subject, grade level, and student diversity. ### Time & Money ROI - Time: Requires only 4–6 hours total, making it ideal for time-constrained educators. High efficiency for the knowledge gained. - Cost-to-value: Free access delivers strong value, especially for budget-limited schools. Even the verified certificate is affordably priced. - Certificate: The credential supports professional development records. It demonstrates engagement with evidence-based teaching methods. - Alternative: Comparable paid courses offer more depth but lack institutional credibility. This course stands out for accessibility and authority. ### Editorial Verdict That’s So Meta(cognitive)! is a compact, well-structured course that delivers meaningful value to science educators seeking to enhance student learning through cognitive strategies. While brief, it succeeds in introducing foundational concepts clearly and linking them to practical classroom applications. The Smithsonian Institution’s reputation ensures academic rigor, and the focus on integrating knowledge—rather than memorizing facts—aligns with modern educational goals. For teachers new to metacognition, this course serves as an excellent primer that sparks further exploration and professional growth. However, its brevity is both a strength and a limitation. Those looking for in-depth training, interactive components, or subject-specific adaptations may need to supplement with additional resources. Despite this, the course’s free access model and clear structure make it a high-impact option for educators worldwide. When paired with intentional implementation and peer collaboration, it can catalyze meaningful changes in teaching practice. For its target audience—K–12 science teachers and curriculum developers—this course earns a strong recommendation as a starting point in the journey toward more thoughtful, reflective instruction. ## How That's So Meta(cognitive)! Compares | Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | That's So Meta(cognitive)! | EDX | 8.5/10 | Beginner | 1 weeks | | Exploring Global Festivals and Celebrations Course | Udemy | 10.0/10 | N/A | N/A | | ChatGPT Foundations for Teachers course | Coursera | 9.7/10 | N/A | N/A | | Mastering Rogerian Counselling Skills Course | Udemy | 9.6/10 | N/A | N/A | ## Who Should Take That's So Meta(cognitive)!? This course is best suited for learners with no prior experience in education & teacher training. It is designed for career changers, fresh graduates, and self-taught learners looking for a structured introduction. The course is offered by The Smithsonian Institution on EDX, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a verified certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers. If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course. ### Career Outcomes - Apply education & teacher training skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities - Qualify for entry-level positions in education & teacher training and related fields - Build a portfolio of skills to present to potential employers - Add a verified certificate credential to your LinkedIn and resume - Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field ## More Education & Teacher Training Courses on EDX Explore other highly rated courses in education & teacher training available on EDX to expand your learning path: - University Chemistry course 9.7/10 - Improving Educational Outcomes through Family Engagement course 9.7/10 - Managing a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace for Public Libraries Course 8.5/10 - Shakespeare’s Othello: The Moor Course 8.5/10 - Development Programme for Advancing Clinical Education 8.5/10 - An Introduction to Evidence-Based Undergraduate STEM Teaching Course 8.5/10 - New Zealand Landscape as Culture: Wai (Water) Course 8.5/10 - Quantum Computing for Your Classroom Course 8.5/10 - Coding for Your Classroom K - 3 8.5/10 - HP Digital Skills for Educators – Microsoft 365 Copilot 8.5/10 ## Top Alternatives on Other Platforms Looking for a different teaching style or approach? These top-rated education & teacher training courses from other platforms cover similar ground: - Exploring Global Festivals and Celebrations Course 10.0/10 Udemy - ChatGPT Foundations for Teachers course 9.7/10 Coursera - Mastering Rogerian Counselling Skills Course 9.6/10 Udemy - Directing the Actor: A USC course with Nina Foch 9.6/10 Udemy - Leadership Training for Autism Ministry & Caregiver Support Course 9.5/10 Udemy - Reading Comprehension: The Wild Robot Parent Guide Course 9.5/10 Udemy - INSPIRED BY REGGIO EMILIA: Creating the Outdoor Classroom Course 9.4/10 Udemy - Academic Writing and Research References using Zotero Course 9.4/10 Udemy - The Bible: What It Is, How We Got It, And Is It The Real Thing? 9.4/10 Udemy - Algebra I (Beginning Algebra) Course 9.4/10 Udemy ## More Courses from The Smithsonian Institution The Smithsonian Institution offers a range of courses across multiple disciplines. If you enjoy their teaching approach, consider these additional offerings: - Teaching Complex Thinking through Art with the National Gallery of Art 8.5/10 - Interdisciplinary Teaching with Museum Objects Course 8.5/10 - Science: A Work in Progress Course 8.5/10 - Designing for Textiles Course 8.5/10 - Conceptual Change: How New Ideas Take Root Course 8.5/10 - Foundations for Transforming Teaching and Learning about Native Americans Course 8.5/10 View all courses from The Smithsonian Institution → ## Related Articles & Guides Deepen your understanding with these articles from our editorial team, covering career advice, industry trends, and learning strategies: - Build AI skills with the Google AI Professional Certificate - Python Tutorial: Best Courses to Learn Python in 2026 - CISSP vs CompTIA Security+: Which Cert Should You Pursue? - Coursera Data Analytics Professional Certificate: Worth It in 2026? - Best edX Courses in 2026: Top Picks by Enrollment and Career Value - Best Online Coursera Courses in 2026: What's Actually Worth Your Time - Udemy Online: What the Platform Actually Delivers in 2026 - OKR for Leaders: 7 Best Training Courses Compared (2026) - Generative AI for Marketing with Microsoft 365 Copilot: Professional Certificate Review - The Best React Courses in 2026, Ranked and Reviewed ## Explore All Course Categories Not sure what to learn next? 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Be the first to share your experience! ## FAQs What are the prerequisites for That's So Meta(cognitive)!? No prior experience is required. That's So Meta(cognitive)! is designed for complete beginners who want to build a solid foundation in Education & Teacher Training. It starts from the fundamentals and gradually introduces more advanced concepts, making it accessible for career changers, students, and self-taught learners. Does That's So Meta(cognitive)! offer a certificate upon completion? Yes, upon successful completion you receive a verified certificate from The Smithsonian Institution. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Education & Teacher Training can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development. How long does it take to complete That's So Meta(cognitive)!? The course takes approximately 1 weeks to complete. It is offered as a free to audit course on EDX, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably. What are the main strengths and limitations of That's So Meta(cognitive)!? That's So Meta(cognitive)! is rated 8.5/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: introduces essential metacognitive concepts clearly; focuses on practical application in science classrooms; free access lowers barrier to entry. Some limitations to consider: very short duration limits depth; lacks advanced or research-level content. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Education & Teacher Training. How will That's So Meta(cognitive)! help my career? Completing That's So Meta(cognitive)! equips you with practical Education & Teacher Training skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by The Smithsonian Institution, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market. Where can I take That's So Meta(cognitive)! and how do I access it? That's So Meta(cognitive)! is available on EDX, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is free to audit, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on EDX and enroll in the course to get started. How does That's So Meta(cognitive)! compare to other Education & Teacher Training courses? That's So Meta(cognitive)! is rated 8.5/10 on our platform, placing it among the top-rated education & teacher training courses. Its standout strengths — introduces essential metacognitive concepts clearly — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding. What language is That's So Meta(cognitive)! taught in? That's So Meta(cognitive)! is taught in English. Many online courses on EDX also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction. Is That's So Meta(cognitive)! kept up to date? Online courses on EDX are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. The Smithsonian Institution has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate. Can I take That's So Meta(cognitive)! as part of a team or organization? Yes, EDX offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like That's So Meta(cognitive)!. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build education & teacher training capabilities across a group. What will I be able to do after completing That's So Meta(cognitive)!? After completing That's So Meta(cognitive)!, you will have practical skills in education & teacher training that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be prepared to pursue more advanced courses or specializations in the field. Your verified certificate credential can be shared on LinkedIn and added to your resume to demonstrate your verified competence to employers. ## Similar Courses Other courses in Education & Teacher Training Courses ![7 Metacognitive Steps to Be More Course](/api/media/file/hero/7-metacognitive-steps-to-be-more-course.jpg?width=480) Udemy Personal Development Courses ### 7 Metacognitive Steps to Be More Course ★★★★☆ Udemy View Course » Enroll ## Related Job Opportunities ### ESS Workshop Technician ESS LTD Limerick, IE Full-Time EUR 35–48/yr ### Technical - Technician Bidvest Noonan Swords, IE Full-Time EUR 17–22/yr ### Procurement Technician Hollybank Trustees Ltd Navan, IE Full-Time EUR 32–45/yr ### Cycle Technician Halfords Cavan, IE Full-Time EUR 21–23/yr ### Alarm Installation Technician - Kildare PhoneWatch Naas, IE Full-Time EUR 42–55/yr Browse more jobs on JobsNearMe.career → ### Explore Related Categories All Education & Teacher Training Courses Explore Course Reviews ### Review: That's So Meta(cognitive)! 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