Abstract
Epistemological beliefs are individual perceptions about the nature and scope of knowledge. Research indicates that these beliefs are part of the cognitive process of learning and may directly impact self-regulation and monitoring. Epistemological beliefs may also affect the depth to which individuals learn as well as the learning strategies they employ. However, researchers have not shared their findings with students and most students are unaware of the epistemological beliefs they hold. Teaching students about their own beliefs in developmental education and learning-to-learn courses can help students move toward more mature epistemological stances. Instructional plans, including an epistemological beliefs assessment for students are discussed. Additionally, suggestions for helping students moved toward more sophisticated epistemological stances are presented.
