The Effect of Teaching Self-Regulated Learning Strategies on Critical Thinking and Mental Health of 6th Elementary Students

Introduction: Today, knowledge of self-regulated learning strategies is one of the requirements for studentschr('39') success. Self-regulatory learning is not an academic or mental performance skill, but a self-directed process in which learners can apply their mental skills to academic skills. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of teaching self-regulated learning strategies on critical thinking and mental health. Methods: This research was a quasi-experimental study with pre-test and post-test design with control group. The statistical population of this study was male and female students of sixth grade elementary school in Fahraj city in the school year of 97-98. Each group (n = 25) was assigned. The data collection tool in this study was the Rickets Critical Thinking Questionnaire (2003) and the Goldberg Health Questionnaire (1970) that was distributed to control and experimental students before and after teaching self-regulated learning strategies. Data analysis was performed using one-way covariance analysis test using SPSS23 software. Results: The findings of the study indicate a significant and positive effect of teaching self-regulated learning strategies on studentschr('39') critical thinking and mental health. Moderated mean scores of critical thinking (creativity) and mental health (improving physical symptoms, anxiety and insomnia, social dysfunction and depression) emphasize, the experimental group being trained in self-regulated learning strategies compared to the control group. Those who are not educated have a higher level of critical thinking and better mental health. Conclusion: Therefore, it is suggested that teaching self-regulated learning strategies be included in the teacherchr('39')s teaching guide for studentschr('39') awareness and it is recommended that textbook authors further discuss teaching patterns based on self-regulated learning in student books.