What is the term for the awareness and control over one’s own thinking processes?

The correct term for the awareness and control over one’s own thinking processes is metacognition. This concept involves knowledge about one's own cognitive abilities, as well as the regulation of those processes in learning and problem-solving situations. Metacognition includes skills such as self-monitoring and self-assessment, which enable individuals to evaluate their understanding and performance and to adjust their strategies accordingly.

For instance, a student demonstrating metacognition might recognize when they do not understand a concept in a textbook and choose to reread the section or seek help. This higher-level thinking allows individuals not just to engage with content but to reflect on how they learn and think, enhancing their ability to approach complex tasks effectively.

Intuition refers to the immediate understanding or knowing without the apparent need for conscious reasoning, which does not involve awareness or control of thought processes. Cognitive biases are systematic patterns of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment, reflecting flaws in individual reasoning rather than awareness of those processes. Heuristics are mental shortcuts or rules of thumb that simplify decision-making, but they do not inherently involve an awareness of thinking processes.