The Impact of Post-Retrieval Practice and Feedback Types on the Accuracy of Metacognitive Judgments and Academic Achievement in Online Learning

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of retrieval practice and various types of feedback on academic achievement and the accuracy of metacognitive judgments in an online learning environment. Participants were divided into a control group, which engaged in standard relearning, and three experimental groups that participated in retrieval practice. These groups were differentiated based on the type and amount of feedback provided: Group 1 received knowledge of results feedback, Group 2 received knowledge of correct response feedback, and Group 3 received elaborate feedback, each designed to test different aspects of learning reinforcement. Participants studied online learning content divided into four segments under these conditions. Metacognitive judgments were assessed through a survey after completing the fourth segment, and academic achievement was measured by a final test consisting of 20 items (9 previously studied items and 11 transfer items), administered one week after the end of the learning period. The results revealed significant differences in academic achievement between the experimental and control groups for both the previously studied and total items. Additionally, the experimental groups demonstrated significantly higher academic achievement and more accurate metacognitive judgments in both item categories compared to the control group. No significant differences were found among the feedback types. Based on these findings, the implications of the study are discussed.