In the context of AP Psychology, which of the following best defines a schema?

• A. A mental framework or concept that organizes and interprets information
• B. A learned response to a previously neutral stimulus
• C. A process of encoding, storing, and retrieving information
• D. A sudden realization of a problem's solution

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that a schema is a cognitive framework or concept that helps individuals organize and interpret information based on prior knowledge and experiences.
2. Step 2: Recognize that schemas influence how we perceive new information by providing mental structures that guide our understanding and expectations.
3. Step 3: Differentiate schemas from other psychological concepts such as learned responses (classical conditioning), memory processes (encoding, storage, retrieval), and insight (sudden realization).
4. Step 4: Identify that the correct definition of a schema aligns with it being a mental framework or concept that organizes and interprets information.
5. Step 5: Conclude that among the given options, the best definition of a schema is 'A mental framework or concept that organizes and interprets information.'