Learners' prior knowledge impacts learning from "summary" of Education Psychology by
One of the key factors that influence how well learners grasp new information is their existing knowledge and experiences. When individuals engage in learning, they do not come as blank slates. Instead, they bring with them a wealth of prior knowledge and skills that can either facilitate or hinder their ability to understand and retain new information. This prior knowledge serves as a foundation upon which new learning is built. When learners encounter new information that is connected to their existing knowledge, they are more likely to make sense of it and integrate it into their mental frameworks. This process, known as schema theory, suggests that individuals organize information into mental structures called schemas. These schemas help individuals make sense of the world by providing a framework for understanding new information in relation to what they already know. However, learners' prior knowledge can also pose challenges to learning. When individuals hold misconceptions or incorrect beliefs about a topic, these faulty schemas can interfere with their ability to grasp new information accurately. In such cases, educators must help learners identify and correct their misconceptions before introducing new concepts to ensure successful learning outcomes. Moreover, learners' prior knowledge can influence their motivation and engagement in the learning process. When individuals feel confident in their existing knowledge and skills, they are more likely to approach new learning tasks with enthusiasm and persistence. On the other hand, if learners feel overwhelmed or uncertain about their abilities, they may become disengaged and resistant to learning.- Educators must be mindful of learners' preconceptions and experiences when designing instruction. By assessing students' prior knowledge, addressing misconceptions, and making connections to existing schemas, educators can create learning experiences that are meaningful, engaging, and effective. Ultimately, by recognizing and leveraging learners' prior knowledge, educators can optimize the learning process and support students in achieving their full potential.
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