The Role of Metacognitive Strategies in Enhancing Learning Outcomes and Educational Efficiency: A Systematic Review of Quantitative, Qualitative and Mixed-Method Studies.

Metacognition plays an important role in education, enhancing learning outcomes and promotes educational efficiency across disciplines and educational levels. In this systematic review, we synthesized evidence from 15 studies, adhering strictly to PRISMA guidelines, to explore the impact of metacognitive strategies on academic performance, efficiency, and the contextual factors influencing their effectiveness. Thematic synthesis identified four major topics: (1) impact of metacognition on learning outcomes, (2) the influence of metacognition on educational efficiency, (3) key moderators and mediators of metacognition’s effect, and (4) methods of assessing metacognition. The findings showed that metacognitive strategies greatly improve educational performance, self-regulated learning and critical thinking skills. In STEM, these strategies increased the problem-solution accuracy and self-efficacy, while in humanities; they supported reflective practices such as critical reading and writing. Educational efficiency was improved through better time management, low instructional time and greater learner autonomy. Moderators and mediating variables such as age, gender, cultural criteria, teacher support and motivation shaped the effectiveness of metacognitive interventions. Common assessment methods included self-report tool and classroom observation and digital tools, although limited use of real-time techniques such as think aloud protocols highlights an occasion for future research. This review emphasizes the transformative ability of metacognitive strategies, identifying gaps in methodological diversity and geographical representation. Addressing these limitations will lead to better integration of metacognition in global educational practices.