Schemas are patterns of behaviour and thinking in individuals that exist underneath the content, context and specific experiences being taught. Meaning that a schema is not directly linked to or related to an object, topic or skill being used, learned or practised. They are instead mental frameworks or patterns of thinking that an individual uses to make sense of the world around them.

Schemas are both innate, leading to some being demonstrated from near birth and acquired during an individual’s life space as they encounter new experiences. However, the vast majority of schemas are developed in their earliest form within the first few years, and these patterns of behaviours become more complex and more numerous, eventually becoming grouped together so that an individual no longer needs to perform singular, isolated actions but instead is able to coordinate their actions, behaviours and responses.

These patterns of behaviours or schemas are mental models that the brain uses to organise and store information. Schemas are essentially built from our memories of our unique experiences and support in enabling an individual to interpret and respond to those experiences in a way that is meaningful. Schemas are not static and can be modified as new experiences and information are assimilated.

When exploring schemas, you will often encounter two theorists, each looking at different aspects of the idea. The two theorists, Jean Piaget and Chris Athey. Chris Athey focuses on specific observable and play-related schemas and divides them based on their unique characteristics.  On the other hand, Jean Piaget focuses on the cognitive mechanisms related to the development and modification of schemas, known as assimilation, accommodation and equilibrium. Assimilation is the process of incorporating new information into existing schemas, while accommodation involves modifying existing schemas to fit new information. Equilibrium is a balance between assimilation and accommodation that allows an individual to adapt to new experiences and information while maintaining a stable understanding of the world.