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Science Sampler: How do we know what we know? A look at schemas

Science Scope—September 2009

A schema is like a file folder in the mind, a knowledge structure that holds all of a learner’s experiences with a given topic. Schemas are thought to be organized, hierarchical representations of information that can help an individual to adapt to new experiences and to learn new information (Anderson and Pearson 1984). Teaching students to use schemas as they reflect upon how they acquire and connect knowledge will help them to become better thinkers and learners. This article describes how to utilize schemas as a powerful tool for students to understand their own thinking and take charge of their own learning.
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