Prior knowledge refers to information or understanding that a person has before encountering new information, experiences, or situations. It is the background knowledge and experience that individuals bring with them when they approach a task or problem. Prior knowledge can be gained through formal education, personal experiences, cultural exposure, or other sources of learning.
Having prior knowledge helps people to better understand and make sense of new information because it provides context and relevance. It allows individuals to build upon what they already know and connect new ideas with their existing understanding. In essence, prior knowledge is a valuable asset that enables learners to acquire new information more effectively and efficiently.