What is the purpose of prompting students with previously learned information?

The purpose of prompting students with previously learned information primarily centers around the concept of retention. By recalling prior knowledge, students reinforce their learning and solidify the connections between new information and what they have already understood. This retrieval practice is crucial as it helps strengthen memory pathways, making it easier for students to access that information in future contexts.

Encouraging students to draw upon previously learned concepts not only helps consolidate that knowledge but also establishes a framework for integrating new ideas, thereby enhancing their overall understanding of the subject matter. This process is essential in special education, as it allows educators to build on students' strengths and prior experiences, making new learning more accessible and meaningful.