The notion of knowledge is both complex and diverse, and it can be defined in various ways. In its simplest form, knowledge refers to the understanding or awareness that an individual has about a particular subject or topic. However, as we dive deeper, we realise that knowledge is much more complex than that; it involves a combination of skills, information, experience, and critical thinking.
One of the most common ways of categorising knowledge is to divide it into three types: practical, theoretical, and technical. Practical knowledge is the kind of information that is gained through experience and hands-on practice. This type of knowledge is often referred to as ‘tacit knowledge’, and it is difficult to articulate or share verbally. Theoretical knowledge, on the other hand, is based on facts, evidence, concepts, and theories. This kind of knowledge is often gained through academia and research. Technical knowledge, as its name suggests, is the knowledge of a specific technique, skill or procedure.
Another classification of knowledge is based on its source: tacit and explicit knowledge. Tacit knowledge is the knowledge that is acquired from experience and observation. It is subjective, unspoken and contextualised. Explicit knowledge, on the other hand, is the kind of knowledge that is codified, articulated, and communicated using language and symbols.
Knowledge can also be classified according to its purpose: descriptive and prescriptive knowledge. Descriptive knowledge is the knowledge that describes facts, concepts, or theories. Prescriptive knowledge, on the other hand, is the knowledge that is intended to guide or prescribe a course of action; it involves the application of information to create solutions to problems.
As we have seen, knowledge is complex and has many definitions and varieties. It is essential to understand that no one type of knowledge is better than the other. Each has its unique contribution, and when combined, they can lead to innovation, creativity, and progress. As the types of knowledge, we have mentioned in this article are not exhaustive, it is worth to note that the diversity in knowledge is infinite. Understanding the different types of knowledge can help us become more aware of our own strengths and areas of growth for personal and professional development.
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