Declarative learning and procedural learning are two different types of learning that involve distinct cognitive processes. Declarative learning refers to the process of acquiring knowledge about facts, events, and concepts, while procedural learning involves the acquisition of skills, habits, and behaviours.
Declarative Learning
Declarative learning involves the acquisition and storage of knowledge that can be consciously recalled and articulated. This type of learning is often associated with the hippocampus, a brain region that is crucial for the formation and retrieval of long-term memories. Declarative learning can be subdivided into two categories: semantic memory and episodic memory.
Semantic Memory involves the storage of general knowledge about the world, including facts, concepts, and language. For example, knowing that Paris is the capital of France or that water is composed of hydrogen and oxygen are examples of semantic memory.
Episodic Memory involves the storage of personal experiences, events, and episodes. For example, remembering your last vacation or your high school graduation are examples of episodic memory.
Declarative learning is often enhanced by repetition and rehearsal. By repeating information, the brain is better able to encode it into long-term memory, making it easier to recall later on.
Procedural Learning
Procedural learning involves the acquisition of skills and habits through repeated practice and feedback. This type of learning is often associated with the basal ganglia and the cerebellum, brain regions that are involved in motor control and coordination.
Procedural learning often involves a trial-and-error process, where learners gradually improve their performance through feedback and practice. Examples of procedural learning include learning to ride a bike, play an instrument, or type on a keyboard.
Unlike declarative learning, procedural learning does not involve conscious awareness or verbalisation of the learned skill. Instead, the skill becomes automatic and requires little or no conscious attention.
Implications for Learning and Education
Understanding the difference between declarative and procedural learning has important implications for education and learning. For example, in subjects like history or science, declarative learning is often emphasised, with students memorising facts and concepts. In contrast, in subjects like math or language, procedural learning is often emphasised, with students practicing problem-solving and language production.
By understanding the different cognitive processes involved in declarative and procedural learning, educators can tailor their teaching methods to optimise learning. For example, using repetition and rehearsal can enhance declarative learning, while providing opportunities for practice and feedback can enhance procedural learning.
In summary, declarative learning and procedural learning are two distinct types of learning that involve different cognitive processes. By understanding the differences between these types of learning, educators can tailor their teaching methods to optimise learning and enhance student performance.