Conceptualization and Psychometric Evaluation of Cosmo-Evolutionary Metacognition Beliefs Scale

Today's man is confronted with a multitude of challenges, ranging from health, environmental, economic, and international relations issues, to matters of spirituality. These problems, whether considered individually or collectively, pose significant threats to human life and well-being. Experts and researchers across various disciplines are now working diligently to develop solutions and overcome these challenges facing humanity. The concept of Evolutionary-Cosmic Metacognition represents an effort to foster a sense of unity and interconnectedness with all aspects of existence, potentially enabling individuals to view themselves as an integral part of the broader fabric of existence and promoting positive, constructive behavior while reducing destructive tendencies. The primary objective of this study was to conceptualize the theory of Cosmic Evolutionary Metacognitive Beliefs and validate a measurement instrument for assessing these beliefs. The study was designed with an applied purpose and utilized a correlational research methodology. For the data collection, a random multi-stage cluster sampling technique was employed, and 181 students from both Shiraz University and Shahid Bahonar University in Kerman participated in the survey. They provided responses to a set of 81 statements pertaining to the concept of evolutionary-cosmic metacognitive beliefs. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were utilized in this study to assess the validity and reliability of the scale. Through EFA, it was determined that 20 items possessed the necessary conditions for inclusion in the Cosmic Evolutionary Metacognitive Beliefs Scale. These items were grouped into four factors based on the obtained results. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis found that 3 of the items did not possess adequate strength to account for the desired factors. As a result, the Cosmic Evolutionary Metacognitive Beliefs scale incorporates 4 factors and 17 items with favorable psychometric indices. This revised scale is recommended for use in future research by interested scholars and researchers.