"Prior" refers to something that comes before another event or item in time or order. It can be used in various contexts, such as discussing previous experiences, decisions, or conditions. For example, in legal terms, a "prior conviction" indicates a previous criminal record that may influence current legal proceedings. In academic settings, "prior knowledge" refers to the information and skills a learner already possesses before encountering new material. This concept is important in education, as it helps educators tailor their teaching methods to build on what students already know, enhancing their understanding and retention of new concepts.