Metacognition constitutes the dominant competence of the 21st century. De-spite the indisputable scientific interest, there are various unanswered questions concerning the identity of metacognition, its fundamental mechanisms and its limits. In this study, a holistic and multi-disciplinary approach is attempted by collecting and utilizing data from sciences such as cognitive psychology and neuropsychology, and philosophy. The research has led us to the 8 pillars that underpin metacognition. These pillars follow the model of the hierarchical or-ganization of knowledge. According to this approach, cognitive and metacogni-tive skills evolve progressively depending on the effort an individual exerts. It is worth noting that some cognitive functions such as attention and working memory seem to surpass the rest, since they operate simultaneously as cognitive and metacognitive abilities, affecting the functioning of the pillars, other cogni-tive functions, and in particular the higher mental abilities. Among the conclu-sions of greatest importance we can cite that the metacognition pillars are, like reality itself, a field of multiple readings. They contribute to the proper func-tioning of the cognitive and psychophysiological mechanism, the melioration of intelligence in all fields (physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual), the emergence of consciousness and self-knowledge. In practical terms, the pillars of metacognition are the most valuable tool of self-learning, self-development, self-treatment and self-knowledge. Metacognition, also, constitutes a key factor in effective leadership, in medical and health professions. Lastly, the pillars of metacognition should be the cornerstone of general, special, vocational and ac-ademic education so as to promote holistic learning.

<p class="0abstract">Metacognition is one of the foremost cardinal factors of achievement in the 21st century. Despite extensive research, there is still the need to build a unique model based on multidisciplinary research illuminating questions as regards the real nature of metacognition and the methods to develop metacognitive abilities. The current study presents a new layered model of metacognition based on well-established theories derived from cognitive science, psychology, physical and computer sciences, environmental and other sciences, even from philosophy. We describe in detail the cognitive and metacognitive processes involved in each layer, while particular emphasis is placed on the relation between the control processes as well as the special role of attention. According to our model, each layer of metacognition describes a higher-order control system which operates under the rule of a series of attention processes at an ever more refined, abstract, united and holistic level. The same applies to the cognitive processes and abilities such as attention, memory, perception, pattern recognition. At each higher level, they display more advanced attributes and functions responding to the necessity of creating more abstract mental representations and upper class motivations, thoughts and emotions.  In addition, we recommend a number of strategies that support the metacognitive development at each level of the hierarchy. The multi-layered model of metacognition targets at enriching our understanding of how metacognition evolves and it has the potential to guide the development of more effective strategies in educational system.<strong></strong></p>

<p class="0abstract">Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder with multi factorial causes, characterized by major cognitive deficits in communication, socialization and emotion recognition and management. Children with autism face a memory mechanism malfunction, difficulty in the control processes (i.e attentional regulation and / or organizing their knowledge in order to make the appropriate decisions solving problems), making it difficult for them, adapt to various environmental changes. Many researchers have shown the effectiveness of robots in developing metacognitive skills to autistic children, as well as in improving social skills, emotion awareness and communication. This article highlights the detailed research took place between 2010 - present, while examining the impact of robots on autistic children through their interaction, use of art, programming, cooperative games and mindfulness training. The outcome of this review emphasizes to the ability of children, to manage and develop mechanisms such as self-control, self-reflection, visualization, focus attention, self-evaluation, self-regulation among others, necessary for their self-awareness. These results to helping children develop the higher mental abilities needed, so that decision-making and problem-solving achieved in their daily life.  </p>