Comparing Self-Efficacy and Meta-Cognition as Indicators of Learning

We report the results of a pilot study that compared the computer self-efficacy construct with metacognition. While self-efficacy is primarily affective and refers to one’s beliefs about one’s ability to perform a task, metacognition is primarily cognitive and refers to one’s thoughts about one’s ability to perform a task. Given their similarity, both have been used as surrogate measures of knowledge or skill. We developed an instrument to measure both constructs and applied the instrument to a set of MIS students taking an Analysis and Design course. Factor analysis produced a five-factor model, with metacognition factoring out as a unidimensional scale. Implications for further research are discussed.