Declarative Knowledge vs. Procedural Knowledge

Attribute	Declarative Knowledge	Procedural Knowledge
Definition	Knowledge about facts and information	Knowledge about how to perform tasks or skills
Form	Can be expressed in statements or propositions	Can be expressed in sequences of actions or steps
Examples	Knowing that Paris is the capital of France	Knowing how to ride a bike
Acquisition	Acquired through learning, studying, or memorization	Acquired through practice, repetition, and experience

Definition

Declarative knowledge refers to factual information that can be stated or declared. It involves knowing "what" something is or "that" something is the case. This type of knowledge is typically explicit and can be easily communicated to others. Procedural knowledge, on the other hand, is knowledge about how to do something. It involves knowing "how" to perform a task or solve a problem. Procedural knowledge is often implicit and is acquired through practice and experience.

Characteristics

Declarative knowledge is often described as knowing about something, while procedural knowledge is described as knowing how to do something. Declarative knowledge is typically stored in the form of facts, concepts, and principles. It can be easily articulated and tested through quizzes or exams. Procedural knowledge, on the other hand, is more about skills and abilities. It is often demonstrated through actions or behaviors rather than words.

Acquisition

Declarative knowledge is usually acquired through reading, listening, or observing. It can be taught in a classroom setting or through self-study. Students can learn declarative knowledge by memorizing information, understanding concepts, and applying principles. Procedural knowledge, on the other hand, is best acquired through practice and hands-on experience. It involves trial and error, feedback, and repetition to develop skills and expertise.

Application

Declarative knowledge is often used to understand and explain the world around us. It helps us make sense of information, solve problems, and make decisions. For example, knowing the capital of a country or the formula for calculating the area of a circle are examples of declarative knowledge. Procedural knowledge, on the other hand, is applied when we need to perform a task or achieve a goal. Driving a car, playing a musical instrument, or cooking a meal all require procedural knowledge.

Transferability

Declarative knowledge is often more easily transferable between different contexts or situations. Once you know a fact or concept, you can apply it to various scenarios. For example, understanding the principles of physics can help you solve problems in engineering, astronomy, or architecture. Procedural knowledge, on the other hand, is more context-specific. The skills and techniques you use to play basketball may not necessarily transfer to playing soccer or tennis.

Development

Declarative knowledge is typically developed through formal education and training. Students learn facts, theories, and concepts in school or through textbooks. They are assessed on their ability to recall and apply this information in exams. Procedural knowledge, on the other hand, is often developed through hands-on practice and real-world experience. Skills are honed through repetition, feedback, and reflection on performance.

Integration

Declarative knowledge and procedural knowledge are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they often work together to help us navigate the world. For example, when learning a new language, you need to acquire both declarative knowledge (vocabulary, grammar rules) and procedural knowledge (speaking, listening, writing). Similarly, in fields like medicine or engineering, professionals need to have a solid understanding of facts and concepts (declarative knowledge) as well as the skills to apply that knowledge in practice (procedural knowledge).