Approaches: The Learning Approach Flashcards
The learning approach consists of:
- Behaviourism
- Social Learning Theory
Outline the Behaviourist Approach:
- Assumptions
- Classical Conditioning (Pavlo’s Dogs)
- Operant Conditioning (Skinner’s Rats)
Define the Behaviourist Approach:
A way of explaining behaviour in terms of what is observable and in terms of learning
Define Classical Conditioning
Learning by association
Occurs when to stimuli are repeatedly paired together, along side a neutral stimulus
The neutral stimulus then becomes a learnt stimulus giving the same response as the original unlearnt stimulus
Outline Pavlov’s Research into Classical Conditioning
- Conditioned dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell
- Bell was presented same time dogs where given food
Define Operant Conditioning:
A form of learning in which behaviour is shaped or maintained based on its consequences. Consequences include negative and positive reinforcement, and punishment.
Outline Skinners Research into Operant Conditioning
- Experiments on rats
- When rat activated leaver it was rewarded with food pellet
- When rat activated leaver electric shocks stopped
Outline Assumptions of the Behaviourist Approach
Only looks at behaviour that can be observed and measured
Reject Introspection
Relied on lab experiments
Evaluate Behaviourism
+ Scientific credibility (lab studies)
+ Real life application (explains phobias, token academy)
- Research on animals? can it be applied
- Ethical issues on animals
- Reductionist view (doest look at conscious)
- Environmental determinism (no free will)
Define Social Learning Theory
A way of explaining behaviour that includes both direct and indirect reinforcement.
Combines learning theory with the role of cognitive factors
Outline Social Learning Theory:
- Assumptions
- Vicarious Reinforcement
- Role of Meditational Processes
- Identification
Outline Social Learning Theory:
- Assumptions
Agree much of our behaviour is learnt
Believe we also learn through observing and imitation
Directly (classical and operant) and indirectly (vicarious)
Outline Social Learning Theory:
- Vicarious Reinforcement
Non-directly experienced
Occurs through observing someone else’s behaviour
Outline Social Learning Theory:
- Role of Meditational Processes
- Attention (noticing behaviour)
- Retention (remembering)
- Motor Reproduction (ability to perform behaviour)
- Motivation (desire, normally determined by reward?)
Outline Social Learning Theory:
- Identification
more likely to imitate behaviour of role models or someone we look up to (modelling)
