What cognitive bias might affect a student's assumption about engineers?

Stereotyping is the correct answer because it refers to the cognitive bias of making generalized assumptions about individuals based on their membership in a particular group, rather than assessing them on an individual basis. In the context of the question, a student might assume certain traits, skills, or behaviors about engineers based solely on preconceived notions or societal stereotypes associated with the profession. This can lead to misjudgments about what it means to be an engineer and overlook the diversity and individuality among professionals in that field.

The other biases listed do not align closely with the scenario described. Confirmation bias involves seeking out information that confirms existing beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence. Hindsight bias is the tendency to see events as having been predictable after they have already occurred. Optimism bias is the belief that one is less likely to experience a negative event compared to others. While these biases can influence a person’s thinking and decision-making, they do not directly pertain to forming general assumptions about a group, which is the essence of stereotyping.