What does assimilation refer to in cognitive development?

In cognitive development, assimilation refers to the process of integrating new information into existing cognitive schemas or frameworks. When an individual encounters a new experience or piece of information, they interpret and incorporate it based on what they already understand. This process allows for continuity in cognitive development, as the individual applies their current knowledge to understand and make sense of new information.

For instance, a child who knows what a dog is, may see a different breed of dog and recognize it as a dog rather than creating an entirely new category for it. By fitting this new information into their existing schema for "dog," the child is demonstrating assimilation. This underlying mechanism is foundational to how individuals develop their understanding of the world around them, and it illustrates a critical aspect of cognitive adaptation.