sop-cognitive

Cognitive factors are central to determining students’ research preparedness, as conducting scholarly inquiry demands active mental processing, critical thinking, and the application of complex academic concepts. Maroco et al. (2016) define cognitive engagement as students’ mental investment and intellectual effort toward mastering tasks, establishing that cognitive involvement is vital for building overall academic competence. In the context of student research, Estacio et al. (2018) emphasize that capabilities depend heavily on a foundational grasp of core concepts, methodological steps, and the ability to interpret data.

Building on this, Castillo-Martínez and Ramírez-Montoya (2021) highlight that research competence relies on critical cognitive tasks: identifying viable research problems, synthesizing literature, evaluating evidence, and accurately interpreting results. Higher-order thinking skills enable students to navigate the complexities of data analysis and logical reasoning required in academic writing. Consequently, evaluating this cognitive dimension provides direct insight into how prepared Grade 11 students at Fame Academy of Science and Technology perceive themselves to be when handling the demands of research under the Strengthened Senior High School Curriculum.