scheme theory

Scheme theory is a concept in psychology and cognitive science that explains how we organize knowledge and experiences in our minds. A "scheme" refers to a mental framework or structure that helps us understand and interpret information. These frameworks are built from past experiences and knowledge, facilitating quick processing and decision-making. For example, when you see a dog, your scheme for "dog" includes things like its typical size, behavior, and sounds. This helps you recognize and respond to dogs generally, rather than having to analyze each individual one from scratch.