The unidimensionality and overestimation of metacognitive awareness in children: validating the CATOM

Abstract

Children often have difficulty in reporting their metacognitive functioning, which leads them to frequently overrating themselves under learning situations. Hence, this study presents a preliminary approach of how children's metacognitive awareness (MA) can be measured. Essentially, this study aims to understand how children (n =1029) report their metacognitive functioning. In a first analysis, EFA revealed a unidimensional structure of the instrument (MK and MS). Item Response Theory was then used to analyse the unidimensionality of the dimension and the interactions between participants and items. Results revealed good item reliability (.87) and good person reliability (.87) with good Cronbach's α for MA (.95). These results show the potential of the instrument, as well as a tendency of children to overrate their metacognitive functioning. Implications for researchers and practitioners are discussed.