Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

What is the outcome of assimilation in knowledge processing?

1. Development of a new schema

2. Expansion of existing schema

3. Complete replacement of old views

4. Stagnation in knowledge growth

The correct answer is: Expansion of existing schema

The outcome of assimilation in knowledge processing refers to how individuals integrate new information into their pre-existing frameworks of understanding, known as schemas. When individuals encounter new data or experiences that can fit within their current understanding, they incorporate this information into their existing schemas. This process leads to the expansion of those schemas, allowing for broader comprehension and depth of understanding without wholly altering one's existing knowledge. For example, if a student who has a schema for birds encounters a new type of bird they've never seen before, they will likely add this new information to their existing schema rather than creating an entirely new category or completely discarding their former knowledge about birds. Assimilation helps facilitate continuous learning and adaptation, contributing to an effective and dynamic knowledge structure.