In cognitive psychology, what is the term for an action pattern or mental structure that is involved in the acquisition and organization of knowledge?

• A. Algorithm
• B. Prototype
• C. Heuristic
• D. Schema

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question is asking for a term in cognitive psychology related to how knowledge is acquired and organized.
2. Recall that an 'Algorithm' is a step-by-step procedure that guarantees a solution but is not specifically about organizing knowledge structures.
3. Recognize that a 'Prototype' is a mental image or best example of a category, which helps in categorization but is not the general structure for knowledge organization.
4. Know that a 'Heuristic' is a mental shortcut or rule of thumb used to make decisions quickly, not primarily about knowledge organization.
5. Identify that a 'Schema' is a cognitive framework or mental structure that helps organize and interpret information, playing a key role in knowledge acquisition and organization.