Linking Metacognition, Workplace Cognitive Competencies and Performance: An Integrative Review-Based Conceptual Framework

Abstract

A key driver of workplace cognitive competencies is metacognition which has been shown to impact performance among nurses, teachers and firefighters, however, it is scarcely studied among managerial employees. The research investigating this relationship is also scattered across multiple domains limiting its’ utility for researchers and practitioners. This paper, therefore, presents an integrative review of the existing empirical literature from the Web of Science and Scopus database to trace the linkages of metacognition, workplace cognitive competencies and performance at work. The identified linkages are then formulated into a conceptual framework clarifying how various workplace cognitive competencies and performance may be linked to metacognition. The findings indicate linkages between metacognition and various workplace cognitive competencies such as problem-solving, decision-making, innovation, creativity and knowledge acquisition. The present research also establishes the link of metacognition and cognitive competencies with learning, individual and firm performance. The review paves way for metacognition to be considered as a distinct construct in the workplace, identifies gaps and provides direction for future research.