The present work proposes a review of the psychological metacognition construct, specially as a skill used in problem solving activities, and specifically in relation to verbal arithmetic problems. It is here attempted to evidence the complexity of the development models regarding the competence in representing and solving different problems involving the four mathematical operations, emphasizing the pedagogical implications suggested by literature. In accordance to the ideas of Professor Franco Seminerio, metacognition is seen as a fundamental psychopedagogical resource to the acquisition of cognitive autonomy by the young apprentice, which effectiveness was observed in experimental interventions conducted by UFRJ Metacognition Laboratory.
Metacognition; Problem solving; Mathematical education; Psychopedagogy