Information & Knowledge

Data - Information - Knowledge - Wisdom

http://www.wipro-campusarena.com/site/learning-development-understanding-ld/

This graph represents the heirarchy of data, information, knowledge and wisdom. On the left axis it has four different contexts that apply to the model. The bottom axis shows the transitition in understanding between data, information, knowledge and wisdom. What is interesting about this graph is that brings together context and understanding and then shows them in relationship to the model.

The whole structuring of this information management system is called DIKW (which is an acronym for Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom). It is though that data is the most basic level. Information adds meaning. Knowledge adds HOW to use the information and Wisdom tells WHEN to use it.

Data are numbers, words, images etc. Data is raw. It just exists.

Information is when you take these numbers, words or images and create meaning.


Knowledge can be acquired when information has been memorised. It is surpassed by Understanding. Understanding is when knowledge can be put into use. If the information is not understood, it can not be applied to more complex situations. Memorised information is still acceptable, but when the information can be understood, it is a lot more useful. The knowledge that is aquired when the information is understood, is far greater than that of a memorised nature. An example is when children learn the times table. They know that 2 times 2 is 4. But when asked what 2548 times 143 is, they are not able to comprehend the question. It is not until you have an understanding of this knowledge that you can apply it to more difficult equations (Bellinger, Castro, Mills. 2004).


Wisdom is more difficult to describe. It is a state of being. Once the information has been understood, there is a humanly state where we learn to discern, or judge, between right and wrong, good and bad about that information.

References

Wipro. 2008. Learning and Development: Understanding L & D. http://www.wipro-campusarena.com/site/learning-development-understanding-ld/

Bellinger, Castro, Mills. 2004. Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom. http://www.systems-thinking.org/dikw/dikw.htm