Accommodation - GCSE Psychology Definition

In the context of GCSE Psychology, accommodation refers to a cognitive process first proposed by Jean Piaget, involving the modification of existing cognitive structures or schemas in response to new information or experiences. When students encounter information that does not fit with their existing knowledge or understanding, they must adjust their mental frameworks to incorporate this new information, allowing for more accurate comprehension and learning. This process differs from assimilation, where individuals integrate new information into existing schemas without changing them significantly. Accommodation is crucial for cognitive development as it enables students to adapt their thinking and improve their understanding of the world.