Which theory emphasizes the importance of prior experiences for comprehension?

The theory that emphasizes the importance of prior experiences for comprehension is schema theory. This concept suggests that individuals store knowledge in mental frameworks, known as schemas, which are formed based on previous experiences. When encountering new information, these schemas help individuals organize and interpret the new material by relating it to what they already know. This process facilitates understanding and retention, allowing learners to make connections that enhance their comprehension.

Schema theory is particularly significant in educational contexts as it underscores the role of a student's background knowledge in processing and understanding content. When educators activate students' prior knowledge before introducing new concepts, they can help students better grasp and integrate this new information, leading to more effective learning outcomes. This aligns with pedagogical strategies that focus on linking new learning to existing knowledge to enhance comprehension further.