How are Knowledge and Comprehension Different?

Although some may think that knowledge and comprehension are interchangeable, in fact, they are distinct and work together in a sequence.  First we must comprehend information, and then it is stored as knowledge.  When we access knowledge from long-term memory,it is comprehended again when that information is used to understand something new. But what exactly is knowledge and comprehension?

Knowledge is the stored, conscious, and accessible information/memories in the brain. Knowledge is not stored in just one part of the brain, but is widely distributed throughout the cortex. Research suggests that there are 4 types of knowledge:

1. Factual knowledge are facts stored in long term memory.
2. Conceptual knowledge the awareness of concepts stored in long-term memory.
3. Procedural knowledge is the knowledge exercised in the performance of a task or the necessary steps to complete a task.
4. Metacognition is the awareness of one’s own cognition.

Comprehension is the cognitive process that enables us to understand ideas and the world around us.
It consists of a complex process that involves knowledge, experience, thinking, and learning.

If you are interested in cognitive tools that can exercise and strengthen comprehension.  Come review my cognitive remedial and braining training publications at Good Sensory Learning.

Reading comprehension is the ability to process text, understand its meaning, and to integrate with what the reader already knows.  To learn more about reading comprehension and strategies to improve it, come read my blogs:

1. Reading Comprehension Problems: 4 Causes and 12 Solutions
2. How Can I Improve My Reading Speed and Comprehension?
3. Excellent Reading Comprehension: Developing the 3 Core Cognitive Skills
4. Boost Reading Comprehension By Exercising Visualization Skills

I hope you found this helpful!