TLC #031: How Learning Happens - How To Unlock the Power of Prior Knowledge: Activating Learners' Prior Knowledge
In this edition of the Learning Chronicle newsletter, we explore the step-by-step guide of how to activate learners’ prior knowledge for effective teaching and learning.
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Welcome to all new subscribers! I am Omotayo Olorunfemi; a learning and development specialist. Check out the archive for previous editions using the first link above. Welcome!!! Once again.
One Learning Quote
“Learning is cumulative; growth is cumulative; progress is cumulative; every advancement is achieved as a function of precepts upon precepts, line upon line”. - Omotayo Olorunfemi
One Article
This is the third part of an ongoing series on prior knowledge.
Click on the links below to read the first and second parts.
Activating learners' prior knowledge is a key strategy to engage them in the learning process and establish connections between their existing understanding and new concepts.
This learning template provides examples of effective methods to activate learners' prior knowledge and make learning more meaningful and relevant.
Step 1: Reflective Questions
Begin the learning experience by asking reflective questions that prompt learners to think about their prior knowledge and experiences related to the topic.
Here are some examples:
What do you already know about [topic]?
Have you encountered situations where [topic] was relevant or important?
How do you think [topic] connects to your personal experiences or interests?
Step 2: Brainstorming and Discussion
Encourage learners to engage in brainstorming sessions and group discussions to activate their prior knowledge.
Provide a prompt or question related to the topic and allow them to share their ideas and perspectives.
Examples of prompts include
List as many things as you can that are connected to [topic].
Share a personal experience or story that relates to [topic].
Discuss with your peers how [topic] might impact our daily lives.
Step 3: Concept Mapping
Utilize concept mapping as a visual tool to activate learners' prior knowledge and help them organize their thoughts. Provide a central concept related to the topic and ask learners to add associated ideas, keywords, or connections. For instance:
Start with the central concept of [topic] and create a concept map showing its relationships with other concepts you know.
Use colours, shapes, or arrows to illustrate the connections between different ideas related to [topic].
Step 4: Multimedia and Real-Life Examples
Present learners with multimedia resources, such as videos, images, or real-life examples, that relate to the topic. These resources can activate their prior knowledge and generate interest.
For instance:
Show a video or documentary that highlights real-world applications of [topic].
Share images or infographics that depict [topic] in various contexts.
Step 5: Personal Reflection and Journaling
Allocate time for learners to engage in personal reflection and journaling activities. Encourage them to reflect on their prior knowledge and experiences, and how they relate to their upcoming learning.
Provide prompts such as:
Write a journal entry describing your understanding of [topic] before starting this learning journey.
Reflect on a time when you encountered [topic] in your daily life. How did you handle it, and what do you think you learned from that experience?
Step 6: Collaborative Learning
Promote collaborative learning environments where learners can engage in group activities or projects. Encourage them to share their prior knowledge, collaborate, and learn from each other.
Examples of collaborative activities include:
Divide learners into groups and assign each group a specific aspect of the topic. Ask them to research, discuss, and prepare a presentation or report to share their findings with the rest of the class.
Organize debates or discussions where learners can express and defend their viewpoints based on their prior knowledge and understanding of the topic.
Conclusion:
Activating learners' prior knowledge is a valuable strategy to enhance engagement and facilitate meaningful learning experiences. By using reflective questions, brainstorming, concept mapping, multimedia resources, personal reflection, and collaborative learning, educators can tap into learners' existing knowledge, build connections, and create a more interactive and relevant learning environment.
One Video
This one-minute-plus video below, posted by Lindsay Deschamps on YouTube, aptly sums up the critical need for activating prior knowledge in learners.
Activating Prior Knowledge Before Reading
One Learning Question
What is one activity you are naturally drawn to? Can you spend 30 minutes doing it today?
What We Are Reading
Office of Ed Tech on AI and the Future of Teaching and Learning: Engaging Educators
Prof. Scott Galloway on Goals
That’s it for this week.
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