Procedural Knowledge

Definition

Procedural knowledge refers to the understanding of how to perform tasks and processes, often described as 'know-how'. This type of knowledge emphasizes skills and procedures rather than just theoretical information, connecting it to the ways we acquire knowledge and beliefs, understand the criteria for justified true belief, and recognize the intellectual virtues essential for learning and knowledge acquisition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Procedural knowledge is essential for skill-based tasks, such as riding a bike or playing a musical instrument, where the focus is on performance rather than verbal explanation.
2. In the context of knowledge acquisition, procedural knowledge helps individuals develop strategies for problem-solving and decision-making.
3. Unlike declarative knowledge, which can often be learned through reading or listening, procedural knowledge usually requires practice and experience to master.
4. Intellectual virtues such as curiosity, open-mindedness, and intellectual courage are vital for developing procedural knowledge as they encourage exploration and practice.
5. Procedural knowledge can often lead to deeper understanding in other areas, enhancing both the learner's capability and confidence in applying their skills in real-world situations.

Review Questions

• How does procedural knowledge differ from declarative knowledge in terms of its application in learning?
  • Procedural knowledge differs from declarative knowledge primarily in its application. While declarative knowledge involves knowing facts and concepts that can be easily articulated, procedural knowledge focuses on the ability to perform tasks and processes effectively. For example, knowing the rules of a game (declarative) versus actually playing it well (procedural) highlights this difference. Mastery of procedural knowledge often requires hands-on practice and experiences rather than just theoretical understanding.
• Discuss the role of intellectual virtues in fostering procedural knowledge among learners.
  • Intellectual virtues play a crucial role in fostering procedural knowledge by promoting qualities that enhance learning and skill development. For instance, curiosity drives learners to explore new skills, while open-mindedness allows them to consider different methods or techniques when tackling tasks. Additionally, intellectual courage encourages individuals to take risks in their learning process, leading to more practice opportunities. Together, these virtues create an environment where learners can thrive in developing procedural knowledge effectively.
• Evaluate how procedural knowledge contributes to an individual's overall cognitive development and understanding of complex concepts.
  • Procedural knowledge significantly contributes to cognitive development by enabling individuals to apply theoretical concepts in practical contexts. When learners engage in procedural tasks, they not only develop specific skills but also deepen their understanding of underlying principles. This hands-on experience allows for the integration of abstract ideas with real-world applications, leading to a more holistic grasp of complex subjects. Consequently, this practical engagement fosters better retention of information and enhances critical thinking skills as learners navigate various problem-solving scenarios.

Related terms

Tacit Knowledge: A type of knowledge that is difficult to transfer to another person by writing it down or verbalizing it, often gained through personal experience.

Declarative Knowledge: Knowledge of facts and information that can be easily articulated or expressed, often contrasted with procedural knowledge.

Metacognition: Awareness and understanding of one’s own thought processes, which plays a significant role in monitoring and regulating one's learning strategies.