Final answer:
The first day of class had differing impacts on Maria and Daniel due to schemas influenced by their prior information, with Maria having heard positive remarks and Daniel having heard negative remarks about the professor.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first day of class had a different impact on Maria and Daniel based on their interpretations influenced by schemas. In all likelihood, Maria had heard positive remarks about the professor, whereas Daniel had heard negative remarks about the professor.
Schemas are cognitive structures that help us organize and interpret information in the world around us. They are influenced by our prior experiences and knowledge, which include the opinions and information we've been exposed to. The students' different preconceived notions about the professor likely shaped their interpretations and experiences on the first day of class in a concept known as confirmation bias, where Maria and Daniel both looked for and gave weight to evidence that confirmed their existing beliefs.
This phenomenon demonstrates the significant role that prior information and perceptions play in shaping our experiences.