The Mediating Role of Metacognition Between Executive Functions and Self-Regulated Learning in Students

The aim of this study was to determine the mediating role of metacognition between executive functions and self-regulated learning in students. This research was a correlation study using structural equation analysis. The statistical population of the study included all junior high school students in Mako city of 5000 people. From this population, 370 people were selected by stepwise cluster sampling using Sloven formula. Data collection tools included Wisconsin Card Classification Test (WCST), Self-Regulated Learning (MSLQ), and Metacognitive Beliefs (MCQ). Data analysis was performed using Pearson correlation and structural equation analysis. Data analysis showed that the direct path from executive functions to self-regulated learning, and metacognitive beliefs, and the direct path from metacognitive beliefs to self-regulated learning were statistically significant. Also, executive function indirectly predicts self-regulated learning through metacognition (p <0.05). According to the results, it can be argued that executive functions directly and also indirectly through metacognition play an important role in students' self-regulated learning