Final answer:
In cognitive psychology, a schema is the mental construct that represents the working concept of a topic, organizing information efficiently for the brain. Conceptual models, like the planetary model of the atom, help understand phenomena that can't be directly observed. Schemas assist in categorizing and processing information when learning complex subjects like history.
Step-by-step explanation:
In cognitive psychology, the model that refers to the working concept of a topic is often referred to as a schema. A schema is a mental construct consisting of a cluster or collection of related concepts. It is a way of organizing information that allows the brain to work more efficiently by making immediate assumptions about the person or object being observed. When we refer to mental models in the context of learning and cognition, we're often talking about conceptual models that help individuals to understand and predict phenomena in the world around them. For example, the planetary model of the atom is a mental model that represents electrons orbiting around a nucleus, similar to planets orbiting the Sun, even though this process cannot be observed directly.
When learning about complex and abstract topics like United States history, your brain develops a mental model that encompasses the various concepts related to the subject such as democracy, power, and freedom. These models help us to categorize and process large amounts of information quickly and efficiently.