A Neurocognitive Approach to Metacognitive Monitoring and Control

To what extent can brain-based investigations inform research on metacognition? Most view metacognition as a set of intricately complex and dynamic processes — such as those involved in insight, cognitive control, and mnemonic strategies. As such, metacognitive research has been thoroughly interdisciplinary, influencing educational, cognitive, developmental, and clinical investigations (see Hacker; Schneider, & Lockl; Mazzoni & Nelson, 1998; Metcalfe & Shimamura, 1994; Schwartz & Bacon, this volume). It may seem rather premature to consider the brain mechanisms that underlie metacognition. Yet, there have been significant advances in neurobehavioral investigations, most notably the advent of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Specifically, we have learned a great deal about the role of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in cognitive control (see Fletcher & Henson, 2001; Koechlin, Ody, & Kouneiher, 2003; E. K. Miller & Cohen, 2001; Shimamura, 2000). In this chapter, I review neurocognitive findings related to metacognitive monitoring and control. These findings are described within the framework of the Nelson and Narens model of metacognition (1990, 1994) and its neurocognitive counterpart, dynamic filtering theory (Shimamura, 1996, 2000).