Texas PPR (Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities) Practice Test

Which term refers to modifying existing schemes in response to a new environment?

1. Adaptation

2. Assimilation

3. Equilibration

4. Disequilibrium

The correct answer is: Adaptation

The correct answer is adaptation. This term describes the process of modifying existing cognitive structures or schemes when faced with new experiences or environments. In educational contexts, adaptation is crucial as it enables learners to adjust their understanding and strategies to better fit new information or challenges. Learners apply adaptation when they encounter situations that do not align with their pre-existing knowledge, leading them to alter their thinking or approach. This process fosters growth and flexibility in thinking, allowing individuals to effectively navigate diverse situations. The other options refer to different cognitive processes. Assimilation involves integrating new information into existing schemes without change. Equilibration is the overall process of balancing assimilation and accommodation to create a stable understanding. Disequilibrium occurs when an individual recognizes that their current schemes are insufficient to handle new experiences, prompting them to seek a new balance through adaptation. Understanding these terms clarifies why adaptation is the most appropriate choice for modifying schemes in response to new information.