Abstract
Problem solving is one of the primary tools for college and university science instruction. In this study, the
review of problem solving and metacognition skills of students was presented. Basically, at the first step,
problem solving was defined and then the differences of the experienced and inexperienced problem solvers
were considered. Various strategy steps of problem solving reported in the open literature were discussed.
Metacognition was introduced as an important part of problem solving process. The research available in the
literature indicated that teaching problem solving strategies help studentsbut not sufficient to promote true
science expertise. Meta-cognitive skills should be clearlytaught to build structured knowledge and develop
desirable habits of mind, and to guide students through the stages of cognitive development.