Brain filled with interconnected video screens

Unlock Your Learning Potential: How Prior Knowledge Shapes Online Video Success

Author's portrait.
Kai Mendoza in Mind & Education August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Dive into the science of video learning and discover how leveraging what you already know can transform your online education experience."


In today’s fast-paced world, online video lectures have become an indispensable tool for education and professional development. Platforms like Coursera, Khan Academy, and YouTube offer a vast library of knowledge at your fingertips, allowing you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. But have you ever wondered why some people seem to absorb information from these videos effortlessly, while others struggle to keep up?

The answer, according to recent research, lies in something called "prior knowledge." Your existing understanding of a subject plays a crucial role in how effectively you can learn from video lectures. A groundbreaking study published in the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction sheds light on the profound impact of prior knowledge on your attitudes, behavior, and learning performance when watching online videos. Let’s unlock these findings together.

This article delves into the key findings of this research, offering actionable insights and practical strategies to enhance your video learning experience. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply a lifelong learner, understanding how prior knowledge influences your learning can help you unlock your full potential and achieve your goals.

The Prior Knowledge Advantage: Why What You Already Know Matters

Brain filled with interconnected video screens

Prior knowledge, simply put, is the foundation of information you already have stored in your long-term memory. It's the network of concepts, facts, and experiences that you can draw upon to make sense of new information. Think of it as the mental scaffolding that supports your understanding. When you encounter new material in a video lecture, your brain automatically tries to connect it to what you already know. The stronger your existing knowledge base, the easier it is to make these connections and absorb new information.

Imagine watching a video about quantum physics with no prior understanding of basic physics principles. You’d likely feel overwhelmed and lost, struggling to grasp even the most fundamental concepts. On the other hand, if you have a solid foundation in classical mechanics and electromagnetism, you'll be better equipped to understand the complexities of quantum mechanics. This is the power of prior knowledge in action.

  • Improved Comprehension: Prior knowledge helps you understand new concepts more quickly and easily.
  • Enhanced Retention: Connecting new information to what you already know makes it more memorable.
  • Increased Engagement: When you understand what's being taught, you're more likely to stay interested and motivated.
  • Better Problem-Solving: A strong knowledge base allows you to apply what you've learned to solve real-world problems.
The study in the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction reveals some awesome results. The scientists had students watch recorded video lectures. They examined two groups - high prior knowledge learners (HK) and low prior knowledge learners (LK). They all spent roughly the same amount of time engaged with the video lectures. However, the HK group showed greater learning. They used more reverse strategies. This means they checked the material being learned more. They also paused and referred to extra materials related to the topic being learned. The results of the study showed they were far better at using and understanding the material presented. They also tested better on a mid-term examination. Perhaps even more impressive is that they felt they had a more positive attitude toward the material.

Empowering Yourself Through Personalized Learning

The insights from this study highlight the importance of personalized learning strategies. Recognizing your current knowledge level and adapting your approach accordingly can significantly enhance your learning outcomes. By focusing on building a strong foundation and utilizing effective viewing techniques, you can transform your online video learning experience and achieve your full potential. So, embrace the power of prior knowledge and embark on a journey of continuous growth and discovery!

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1080/10447318.2018.1543086, Alternate LINK

Title: Effect Of Prior Knowledge On Attitudes, Behavior, And Learning Performance In Video Lecture Viewing

Subject: Computer Science Applications

Journal: International Journal of Human–Computer Interaction

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Authors: Liang-Yi Li

Published: 2018-11-14

Everything You Need To Know

1

Why is prior knowledge so important for effectively learning from online video lectures?

Prior knowledge significantly enhances learning from online video lectures because it allows you to connect new information to existing mental frameworks. This connection improves comprehension, enhances retention, increases engagement, and facilitates better problem-solving. Without prior knowledge, grasping complex concepts can be overwhelming, as there is no foundation to build upon.

2

What were the key findings of the study in the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction regarding prior knowledge and video learning?

The study in the International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction compared high prior knowledge learners (HK) and low prior knowledge learners (LK) watching video lectures. The HK group demonstrated greater learning outcomes, utilizing reverse strategies like frequently checking the material and consulting extra resources. These learners not only performed better on exams but also exhibited a more positive attitude toward the subject matter.

3

Why is personalized learning crucial for enhancing the online video learning experience?

Personalized learning is important because recognizing and adapting to your current knowledge level significantly improves learning outcomes. By focusing on building a strong foundational knowledge and utilizing effective viewing techniques such as reverse strategies, individuals can transform their online video learning experience and achieve their full potential.

4

What are reverse strategies, and how do they relate to prior knowledge in video learning?

Reverse strategies refer to the active learning behaviors exhibited by high prior knowledge learners (HK). These strategies involve actions such as frequently checking the material being learned, pausing the video to reflect, and referring to additional resources to deepen understanding. The study highlights that these strategies significantly contribute to better learning outcomes and a more positive attitude towards the material.

5

What aspects of building prior knowledge for video learning are not covered, and what further exploration could be beneficial?

While the text focuses on the benefits of prior knowledge and strategies like personalized learning and reverse strategies, it does not delve into specific methods for acquiring prior knowledge. Future exploration could include discussing resources such as introductory courses, textbooks, or preparatory readings that can help learners build the necessary foundation before engaging with more advanced video lectures. Additionally, the role of instructors in facilitating this process could be further examined.

Newsletter Subscribe

Subscribe to get the latest articles and insights directly in your inbox.