Question

What is the difference between assimilation and accommodation? Provide examples of each.

Short answer

Assimilation is when new experiences are understood within the context of existing schemas or models of understanding, like identifying a wolf as a dog. Meanwhile, accommodation refers to the alteration of these schemas as a result of new experiences which might not fit into them, such as realizing that wolves are distinct from dogs and thus changing their understanding of the concept of 'dog'

Step-by-step solution

Define Assimilation

Assimilation is the cognitive process of fitting new information into existing cognitive schemas, perceptions, and understanding. This means that when you are faced with new information, you make sense of this information by relating it to things that you already know. A clear example can be a child, who already understands about the concept of 'dogs', assimilates when they encounter a wolf and understand it as just another type of 'dog'.

Define Accommodation

Accommodation is the cognitive process of revising existing cognitive schemas, perceptions, and understanding so that new information can be incorporated. Here, the pre-existing knowledge doesn't fit the new information, hence you need to change what you already know to make the new information fit in. For example, the child who first called a wolf a 'dog' may later learn that there are significant differences between the two. At that point, accommodation happens, where they adjust their category of 'dog' to accommodate this new information.

Key concepts

Assimilation

In the realm of cognitive development, **assimilation** refers to how we take in new information and incorporate it into our existing knowledge and frameworks. Think of it as adding new books to your shelf without needing to build new sections or rearrange the current setup. When we encounter something new, we try to understand it based on what we already know.
For example:

• If a child knows about the concept of a 'dog' and sees a wolf for the first time, they might label the wolf as a 'dog' because it fits into their existing idea of four-legged, furry animals they know as dogs.
• Assimilation also occurs when a student learns a new type of math problem but sees it as similar to ones they have solved before, using the same methods they're familiar with.

Assimilation doesn’t require much change in thought; it's comfortably sliding new information right into what’s already there.

Accommodation

**Accommodation** signifies a deeper level of understanding and adaptation in cognitive development. It's when our current knowledge and thought processes need a change to incorporate new information that doesn't quite fit our existing schemas. This process requires more significant mental restructuring and can often lead to 'aha' moments.
For example:

• The child who initially labeled a wolf as a 'dog' realizes the differences after learning more about wolves and dogs. They then create a new category in their mind to differentiate between the two animals.
• An avid cyclist trying out rollerblading may think they can transfer all bike skills directly. When they discover distinct differences, they adjust their balance and movements uniquely suited to rollerblading.

Accommodation involves modifying or developing new cognitive structures to align better with new stimuli, ensuring a more accurate understanding.

Cognitive Schemas

**Cognitive schemas** are like mental maps or frameworks that help us organize and interpret information in our minds. They act as patterns through which we view the world, giving structure to our perceptions and aiding in understanding. Over time, as we experience new things, our schemas evolve.
Key features:

• Schemas simplify reality by helping us process information quickly and efficiently. This can be especially helpful when facing familiar situations.
• For instance, you might have a schema about what a "teacher" is based on past experiences, helping you form expectations when meeting new teachers.

Both assimilation and accommodation work with cognitive schemas, either by adding to them in assimilation or by altering them through accommodation. Our brain uses these processes to create a constantly evolving understanding of the world around us.