Schema

Schema (psychology)

A schema in psychology is a cognitive framework or concept that helps individuals organize and interpret information. Schemas can be useful because they allow us to take shortcuts in interpreting a vast amount of information. However, these mental frameworks also cause us to exclude pertinent information to focus instead only on things that confirm our pre-existing beliefs and ideas. Schemas can contribute to stereotypes and make it difficult to retain new information that does not conform to our established ideas about the world.

Definition

The term schema was introduced by Piaget in 1923. It refers to both the mental and physical actions involved in understanding and knowing. Schemas are categories of knowledge that help us to interpret and understand the world. In Piaget's view, a schema includes both a category of knowledge and the process of obtaining that knowledge. As experiences happen, this process of obtaining knowledge is accommodated and assimilated with the pre-existing schema.

Types of Schemas

There are several types of schemas, including:

• Object schema - Organize knowledge about specific things in the world.
• Person schema - Organize knowledge about different types of people.
• Social schema - Organize knowledge about social interactions.
• Event schema - Also known as scripts, these organize knowledge about routines and procedures.

Role in Learning

Schemas play a significant role in learning. They provide a structure for understanding the world and act as a framework for future understanding. When we encounter new information, we try to fit it into our existing schemas. If the information fits, we simply add it to our schema. If it doesn't, we either have to change our schema or form a new one.

See Also

• Cognitive psychology
• Cognitive schema
• Schema therapy
• Social cognition

References

Schema Resources
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