What does 'schema theory' suggest about human cognition?

Schema theory posits that knowledge is organized into cognitive structures known as schemas, which are mental frameworks that help individuals interpret and understand the world around them. These schemas enable individuals to categorize information, make sense of new experiences, and integrate them with existing knowledge. This organization of knowledge allows for more efficient processing and recall, as individuals use schemas to predict outcomes and guide behavior based on past experiences.

By viewing knowledge as structured into units or schemas, this theory demonstrates how our understanding of reality is shaped by our previous experiences and the frameworks we've developed. It emphasizes the active role of the individual in cognitive processes, suggesting that our interpretation of new information is influenced by these pre-existing schemas.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the core ideas of schema theory. The suggestion that knowledge is innate and cannot be changed fails to recognize the adaptability and evolution of schemas based on new information and experiences. Proposing that cognition occurs in isolation from experience undermines the very essence of schema development, which is deeply rooted in personal encounters and learning. Lastly, the notion that learning is based purely on external rewards neglects the cognitive processes involved in how individuals construct their understanding of the world.