What does the concept of "schema" allow individuals to do?

The concept of "schema" refers to cognitive frameworks or structures that help individuals organize and interpret information based on their experiences and understandings of the world. Schemas enable people to categorize new information by fitting it into existing structures, which aids in making sense of complex data and experiences. For example, a child may have a schema for "dogs" that includes traits like having fur, tails, and barking. When encountering a new type of dog, the child can use this existing schema to analyze and understand the new information, facilitating efficient learning and interaction with their environment.

This ability to organize and interpret information is crucial for cognitive development, enhancing learning, memory, and problem-solving. As individuals encounter new experiences, they can either assimilate this information into existing schemas or, if the new information doesn't fit, they may need to accommodate or alter their schemas accordingly. This adaptability is a key aspect of cognitive development as described by theorists like Jean Piaget.