What does the term 'schema' refer to in cognitive development?

The term 'schema' in cognitive development refers to a mental structure for organizing knowledge. This concept is central to understanding how individuals, particularly children, organize their experiences and interpret new information based on what they already know. Schemas help in forming a framework for understanding the world, allowing individuals to process and categorize information efficiently.

For instance, as children encounter new experiences, they either assimilate this information into existing schemas or accommodate it by creating new schemas. This process supports cognitive growth and helps individuals make sense of complex information by linking it to their prior knowledge. The notion of schema is integral to many educational theories and practices, emphasizing the importance of building on what learners already understand to facilitate deeper learning and comprehension.