Over the past few years researchers in a number of areas, particularly reading, memory development, and special education, have been showing a growing interest in examining the role that cognitive monitoring and other aspects of metacognition play in the performance of cognitive tasks. These researchers are now convinced that metacognitive beliefs, decisions, and actions are important, but frequently overlooked, determinants of success or failure in a wide variety of activities. They believe that successful cognitive performance depends on having not only adequate knowledge but also sufficient awareness and control of that knowledge.