Prior Knowledge
When referring to the prior knowledge of the learners, it means understanding the pre-existing knowledge, abilities, and practical experiences that learners bring to the learning activity. Skills include technical, soft, and theoretical skills. Experiences encompass the practical, real-world encounters and activities that learners have been professionally and personally involved in before the case study. In order to write a case study suitable for your learning group, you should carefully look at this prior knowledge. Understanding the skills and experiences that learners bring to a case study is crucial for several reasons: tailoring instruction, leveraging strengths, identifying gaps, and enhancing relevance.
Personal reflection
Why is it important to understand the prior knowledge of learners before designing a case study?
How might the design of a case study in a business course differ for learners with prior experience in marketing versus those who are new to the subject?
Reflect on a time when prior knowledge significantly influenced your learning experience. How did it affect your engagement and understanding?