What is the meaning of prior knowledge?

Prior knowledge refers to a combination of the students' preexisting attitudes, experiences, and knowledge. This concept is critical in education, as it emphasizes that learners bring their own unique backgrounds and perspectives to the classroom, which can greatly influence their engagement and understanding of new material. Recognizing and building upon this existing knowledge allows educators to create more effective and relevant learning experiences. By understanding what students already know, teachers can tailor their instruction to bridge gaps in understanding and make connections to new concepts. This multidimensional nature of prior knowledge encompasses not only factual knowledge but also schema, emotional connections, and contextual understanding, making it a foundational element in the learning process.