Which concept emphasizes learning as a process of connecting old information with new information?

The concept that emphasizes learning as a process of connecting old information with new information is elaboration. Elaboration involves enhancing understanding and memory by relating new information to existing knowledge. This could mean providing additional details, examples, or making associations that deepen comprehension. By integrating what is already known with new concepts, learners can create a more comprehensive cognitive framework, facilitating retention and application of knowledge.

In the context of educational psychology, elaboration is a critical strategy as it aligns with constructivist principles, where learners actively build on their prior knowledge to form new understandings. While active learning refers to engagement in the learning process through activities, and informal learning describes unsystematic learning that takes place outside traditional educational settings, neither specifically highlights the integration of old and new information as the primary focus. Hence, elaboration stands out as the concept that encapsulates this idea effectively.