Provide Answers to Metacognitive Queries

The question of closure (Am I finished?) is just one of many "metacognitive" queries learners use to monitor their mental processing. Others include questions of comprehension (Do I understand this?), progress (Am I getting there?), and the need to alter strategy (This isn't working; what else can I try?). Learners need specific instructions to answer metacognitive queries. Just as experienced teachers offer students access to their "expert" patterns of thought by "thinking aloud" in class, interactive text designers should anticipate metacognitive queries and provide appropriate feedback.