Practical knowledge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ ๏ธ
practical knowledge
[หpraktษชk(ษ)l หnษlษชสค ]
Definition
important for everyday life
Practical knowledge refers to the information and skills that are useful and relevant for everyday activities and situations. It is the ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-life scenarios.
Synonyms
applied knowledge, hands-on experience, practical skills.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| practical knowledge |
Use this term when referring to the understanding and skills needed to perform tasks in real life, usually gained through direct experience or practice rather than theory.
|
| applied knowledge |
This term is best used when describing knowledge that is used to solve specific problems or perform tasks within a certain field, usually derived from theoretical knowledge put into practice.
|
| hands-on experience |
This phrase is ideal for situations where direct, active participation in tasks or activities is involved, often implying physical or practical engagement.
|
| practical skills |
Use this term to refer to the abilities needed to carry out tasks effectively in real-world scenarios, often skills that are developed through practice and experience.
|
Examples of usage
- Having practical knowledge of first aid can save lives in emergencies.
- Her practical knowledge of gardening helped her create a beautiful backyard oasis.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- In many schools, practical knowledge is taught through hands-on activities like science experiments or building projects.
- Vocational education, which teaches skills for specific jobs, emphasizes practical knowledge to prepare students for real-world work.
- Montessori and experiential learning methods focus heavily on children gaining practical skills through direct experience.
Psychology
- Research in psychology suggests that people retain practical knowledge better because it involves physical engagement and emotional responses.
- The process of cognitive apprenticeship highlights how learning is often improved when students can observe and then practice real tasks.
- The 'learning by doing' theory argues that people learn best when they are actively involved in their learning process.
Philosophy
- Aristotle distinguished between 'theoretical knowledge' (knowing that) and 'practical knowledge' (knowing how), emphasizing the latter's importance in daily life.
- Practical wisdom, or 'phronesis' in Greek, is a key concept in virtue ethics, stressing the ability to make sound judgments in everyday practices.
- Modern existentialists argue that individuals create their own understanding through practical engagement with the world.
Technology
- In the tech industry, practical knowledge is often acquired through internships and real project experience, bridging the gap between theory and application.
- Coding bootcamps focus on teaching practical skills to quickly prepare students for programming jobs, contrasting with traditional academic paths.
- Virtual reality is being used as a tool to enhance practical knowledge by simulating real-world experiences in a controlled environment.
Cultural Impact
- Different cultures place varying emphasis on practical knowledge; for instance, indigenous communities often value experiential learning within their traditions.
- The rise of DIY culture reflects a societal shift towards valuing practical knowledge in personal and community projects.
- In many developing countries, practical knowledge is crucial for daily survival, leading to skills passed down through generations.
Origin of 'practical knowledge'
The term 'practical knowledge' dates back to ancient philosophy, where it was considered essential alongside theoretical knowledge. Practical knowledge emphasizes the importance of applying learned concepts in real-world situations, leading to the development of skills and expertise. Throughout history, practical knowledge has been valued for its contribution to problem-solving and innovation in various fields.