Learning

• What is learning?• Classical Conditioning• Operant Conditioning • Applications of learning• Cognitive Learning

What is Learning?

• A relatively permanent change in behavior, knowledge, capability, or attitude that is acquired through experience and cannot be attributed to illness, injury, or maturation.

• Fixed action patterns: behaviors that are driven by genetic inheritance and are species-specific.

Classical Conditioning

• Ivan P. Pavlov

• Classical conditioning is a form of learning in which an association is formed between one stimulus and another.

• Reflexes– automatic stimulus-response

connections that are “hardwired” into the brain

Classical Conditioning

• Neutral Stimulus• Unconditioned

Stimulus• Unconditioned

Response • Conditioned

Stimulus• Conditioned

Response

Related Terms

• Extinction• Spontaneous Recovery• Generalization • Discrimination

Conditioning Little Albert

Watch the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxKfpKQzow8

Operant Conditioning

• B. F. Skinner • Thorndike’s Law of

Effect

Types of Reinforcement

• Positive reinforcement• Negative reinforcement • Punishment• Response Cost

(negative punishment)

• Primary reinforcers• Secondary reinforcers• Internal reinforcers• External reinforcers

Types of Reinforcement

Continuous and Partial Reinforcement

• Continuous reinforcement • Partial reinforcement • Fixed Ratio • Variable Ratio • Fixed interval• Variable Interval

Related Terms

• Extinction• Shaping• Generalization• Discriminative stimulus• Escape learning• Learned Helplessness

Applications of Operant Conditioning

• Biofeedback• Behavior Modification• Token Economy

Applications of Classical Conditioning

• Systematic desensitization• Flooding• Aversion therapy

Other forms of Learning

• Cognitive learning• Insight• Latent learning• Observational learning

• Cultural effects?