Front Psychol. 2026 May 18;17:1843623. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1843623. eCollection 2026.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: In an increasingly interconnected and contextually fluid digital era, this study investigates how Metalinguistic Awareness (MAS) relates to Cross-Contextual Communication Effectiveness (CCC), framed from an instructional intervention design perspective.
METHODS: A quantitative survey was conducted among 709 participants using validated MAS and CCC scales to explore the correlations and predictive power of various language domains.
RESULTS: The analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.739, p < 0.001) between the two constructs. Multiple regression analysis further showed that the six dimensions of MAS collectively account for 59.1%of the variance in CCC. Critically, higher-order dimensions emerged as the strongest statistical predictors: pragmatic awareness (β = 0.231), reflective awareness (β = 0.215), and discourse awareness (β = 0.176). Additionally, extensive cross-cultural experience was significantly associated with higher levels of both MAS and CCC.
DISCUSSION: The research empirically suggests that higher-order metalinguistic awareness is a key cognitive correlate of effective communication. To genuinely empower learners, language pedagogy should consider shifting from traditional formalism toward an integrated paradigm centered on fostering pragmatic, discourse, and reflective awareness through authentic, practice-based methods.
PMID:42233082 | PMC:PMC13223158 | DOI:10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1843623
