What is Procedural Knowledge?
Procedural knowledge, also known as know-how, is the knowledge exercised in the performance of some task. It is the ability to do something, rather than simply knowing facts or information. Unlike declarative knowledge, which involves knowledge of specific propositions, procedural knowledge involves one's ability to perform an action or exercise a skill.
Why Does Procedural Knowledge Matter?
Procedural knowledge is essential for everyday life, as it enables individuals to perform tasks and accomplish goals. It is a fundamental aspect of learning and development, as it allows individuals to build on their existing knowledge and skills. Procedural knowledge is also crucial for experts in various fields, as it enables them to perform complex tasks and procedures with ease.
Key Facts
- Procedural knowledge involves one's ability to perform an action or exercise a skill.
- It does not require verbal articulation, as individuals can possess procedural knowledge without being able to explain it.
- Procedural knowledge is different from declarative knowledge, which involves knowledge of specific propositions.
History
The concept of procedural knowledge has been around for centuries, and it is a fundamental aspect of various fields, including cognitive psychology and intellectual property law. However, the term "procedural knowledge" itself has narrower but related technical uses in these fields.
Examples
Examples of procedural knowledge include:
- Knowing how to ride a bike
- Understanding how to change a flat tire
- Being able to cook a meal
- Possessing the skills necessary for a particular profession or trade
Procedural Knowledge in Real-World Contexts
Procedural knowledge is essential in various real-world contexts, including:
- Education: Procedural knowledge is a fundamental aspect of learning and development, as it enables individuals to build on their existing knowledge and skills.
- Work: Procedural knowledge is crucial for experts in various fields, as it enables them to perform complex tasks and procedures with ease.
- Everyday Life: Procedural knowledge is essential for everyday tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, and managing finances.
FAQ
What is the difference between procedural knowledge and declarative knowledge? Procedural knowledge involves one's ability to perform an action or exercise a skill, whereas declarative knowledge involves knowledge of specific propositions.
How is procedural knowledge acquired? Procedural knowledge is typically acquired through experience, practice, and repetition.
Can procedural knowledge be verbalized? No, procedural knowledge does not require verbal articulation, as individuals can possess procedural knowledge without being able to explain it.
Is procedural knowledge unique to humans? No, procedural knowledge is not unique to humans, as animals and machines can also possess procedural knowledge.