According to schema theory, how does new information get processed?

New information is processed according to schema theory primarily by being filtered through existing schemas. Schemas are cognitive frameworks that help individuals organize and interpret information based on their prior knowledge and experiences. When we encounter new information, we relate it to what we already know, using our schemas to make sense of it. This integration allows for more efficient learning and understanding, as we can categorize and connect new data with existing knowledge.

For example, when a child learns about dogs, they might have a schema that includes characteristics like "four legs," "barks," and "furry." When they encounter a new breed of dog, they can fit this new information into their pre-existing schema, enhancing their understanding rather than starting from scratch.

In contrast, the other options reflect misconceptions about how we process information. Ignoring information unless it's personally relevant would limit learning, and rote memorization does not involve meaningful processing or integration of new information with existing cognitive structures. Finally, while emotional state can influence learning to some extent, it is not the primary mechanism through which new information is processed according to schema theory.