Systematic Review on the Application of Metacognitive Strategies and the Benefits of Education 4.0 for Graduate Employability and Learning Sustainability

Abstract

The integration of metacognitive strategies and Education 4.0 is influential in enhancing employability and learning sustainability. However, there is a gap in systematic review papers focusing on this integration. Therefore, this review was conducted to explore this phenomenon by examining journal articles discussing challenges in employability and learning sustainability, alongside the application of metacognitive strategies and Education 4.0 benefits. Following Cooper’s and PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted across six major databases, screening articles published from 2017 until 2022, resulting in 49 studies in the final analysis. The findings revealed that the majority of studies were empirical, with diverse methodologies and a strong geographical focus on Asia. Four major themes were identified discussing the challenges in employability and barriers to learning sustainability as well as the application of metacognitive strategies and the benefits of Education 4.0. This review could significantly enhance educational outcomes by fostering learner engagement, benefit educators by improving teaching practices through tailored instruction, and address the skill gap by strengthening industry-academia ties, thus better preparing students for their future careers.