Schema: GCSE Psychology definition

What is a schema?

A schema is a mental representation of ideas and information that are developed through experience. They allow us to predict what may happen, which is why they are considered to be mental shortcuts. A baby’s first schema, according to Piaget, is the body schema, i.e. this is me/this is not me As the child gets older, their schemas become more complex and sophisticated. For example, they begin with schemas of concrete objects (e.g., ‘cat’, ‘house’) and become more complex and nuanced as the child matures (e.g., they can incorporate abstract concepts such as freedom’ or ‘loneliness’).

Schemas are unique to the individual as they are built from that individual's experience of the world, e.g., from the books they have read, places they have visited, their family life, schooling, friendships, culture, etc. One person's schema for 'cat' will share many features with other people's 'cat' schema (e.g., whiskers, tail, etc.), but it will include details exclusive to that person (e.g., 'I once had a kitten called Mr. Meow').

Schema Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

You can use the Save My Exams revision notes to revise schema and further your understanding of Piaget’s stage theory & the development of intelligence.

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