The prediction process in metamemory : a distinction between general and task-specific self-efficacy
Date
1991
Authors
McDonald-Miszczak, Leslie Carol
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Previous research has suggested that younger and older adults may differ in their memory monitoring ability (e.g., global performance predictions). More recently, investigations have begun to focus on the prediction process itself suggesting that it is comprised of adults' general memory self-efficacy beliefs, task-specific self-efficacy, and appraisal of the specific memory task. The present investigation examined the influence of normative task information and general memory self-efficacy beliefs on the prediction and recall of word lists. Normative task information was manipulated by having the 36 younger (20-30 yrs.) and 36 older (65-75 yrs.) subjects give their predictions and recall after receiving (a) no normative information, (b) self-generated normative information, or (c) accurate age-graded normative information. A repeated measures (3 trials) design was used. The results indicated that: (a) the elderly predicted their performance more accurately than the younger subjects, (b) subjects in the accurate normative information condition predicted their performance most accurately, and (c) both age groups seemed to monitor their predictions accurately. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that general memory self-efficacy beliefs influenced first trial predictions, whereas subsequent predictions were influenced by previous that performance predictions are part of a process that is comprised of general memory self-efficiency beliefs, task specific self-efficacy, and task appraisal.