Simply put, a schema describes patterns of thinking and behavior that people use tointerpret the world.
Schemas are mental models found inlong-term memory.
The brain utilizes such models to organize information about the world.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
Schemas are essentially built from our memories of our unique experiences.
Theorist Jean Piaget introduced the term schema, and its use was popularized through his work.
According to his theory ofcognitive development, children go through a series of stages of intellectual growth.
Schema Examples
Looking at an example can help you better understand what a schema is.
Consider how a young child may first develop a schema for a horse.
They know that a horse is large and has hair, four legs, and a tail.
The child now realizes that while some horses are very large animals, others can be very small.
Through new experiences, existing schemas are modified and new information is learned.
For example, most people in industrialized nations have a schema for what a car is.
Schemas will often persist, even when people are presented with evidence that contradicts their beliefs.
How Schemas Affect Learning
Schemas also play a role in education and the learning process.
Consider how this might work forgender expectationsand stereotypes.
Everyone has a schema for what is considered masculine and feminine in their culture.
Baldwin MW.Relational schemas and the processing of social information.Psycholog Bull.
1993;64(1):285-297.
Levine LE, Munsch J.Child development; an active learning approach.
Lindon J, Brodie K.Understanding child development: 0-8 Years.
