Which type of knowledge involves understanding rules and concepts but not necessarily how to perform related actions?

Declarative knowledge refers to knowledge that is descriptive in nature and focuses on facts, concepts, and rules. It is about knowing "what" something is rather than knowing "how" to do it. This type of knowledge encompasses information that can be communicated and understood cognitively, such as knowing what the capital of a country is or understanding the principles of a theory.

In this context, declarative knowledge can be seen as foundational; it lays the groundwork for deeper comprehension and skills. For example, one might understand the rules of chess (declarative knowledge) without necessarily being able to play the game effectively (procedural knowledge). Thus, the distinction between knowing about something and being able to perform associated actions is a critical aspect that highlights the nature of declarative knowledge.