Distinguish between concepts, schemas, and scripts. Provide an original example of each and explain how each of these types of mental representations contributes to efficient and effective thought and behavior.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

A concept is a mental representation or idea about something that is formed by mentally combining all of its characteristics or particulars. The concepts are organized in a hierarchical fashion, with the superordinate category being broken down into the basic level, which is further broken down into the subordinate level. Concepts may be represented as prototypes or stored examples called exemplars. Schemas are mental constructs that enable you to recognize things you have seen before, but they can also be used to solve problems, set goals, and predict and explain your own behaviors. The content of your schemas may vary based on your experiences and your culture. A schema varies from a prototype in that it is more flexible. The schema is a general framework, whereas the prototype has default information. A script is a specific type of schema that provides you with information about a sequence of familiar events or routine activities. Scripts are activated automatically and unconsciously, guiding your behavior. Your behavior is based on the expectations you have from the script. Because schemas and scripts are flexible, they are subject to change and can be adapted to complex situations. Students' original examples will vary, but they should include an explanation of how the mental representations contribute to efficient and effective thought and behavior.