Metacognition is loosely defined as “thinking about thinking.” Cognition as a whole is also a very complex process. Cognition is somewhat of an umbrella term that includes all mental functions performed with our mind. It is what makes us different than other species. Certainly, other species have senses. They perceive things in the environment, and they have memory that enables them to survive. Some species even demonstrate some limited complex higher-order functions such as reasoning and problem-solving.
However, humans are unique in that they can use each lower-order cognitive function by itself to sense something, to perceive something, or to remember something. No other species can use and manipulate the basic cognitive functions performed everyday and combine them to think. When humans think, they combine and use a number of lower-order functions in order to successfully employ higher-order functions that allow them to survive, adapt, and even outthink other species and change our environment.
For this discussion, look at the topics we covered throughout the term, select one higher-order function (reasoning, problem-solving, decision-making, etc.), and think about that higher-order function. Then, submit a discussion post that includes the following:
The name of your selection (higher-order cognitive function: reasoning, problem-solving, etc.)
Why you believe it is most important compared to the rest of the higher-order functions we have discussed
An explanation/description of what occurs when the selected higher-order function is performed
An example of someone performing the function (solving a problem, reasoning, etc.) (It can be aviation-related but does not need to be.)
A discussion about the complexity of this selected function.
Please respond to this discussion with your initial post by the fourth day of the module week so that your fellow students have the opportunity to read and respond to your post as needed. Provide at least 2 (two) reputable scholarly sources to support your position.
