Chapter 5: Learning Flashcards
Classical Conditioning
Also known as Pavlovian conditioning: the type of learning in which a response is naturally elicited by one stimulus comes to be elicited by a different, formerly neutral, stimulus.
Desensitization Theory
A conditioning technique designed to gradually reduce anxiety about a particular subject or situation.
Operant Conditioning
Also known as Instrumental conditioning: the type of learning in which behaviors are emitted (in the presence of specific stimuli) to earn rewards and avoid punishments.
Law of Effect (Principle of Reinforcement)
Thorndike’s theory that behavior consistently rewarded will be “stamped in” as learned behavior, and behavior that brings about discomfort will be “stamped out.”
Schedule of Reinforcement
In operant conditioning, the rule for determining when and how often reinforcers will be delivered.
Fixed-ratio Schedule
A reinforcement schedule in which the correct response is reinforced after a fixed number of correct responses.
Variable-Ratio Schedule
a reinforcement schedule in which a varying number of correct responses must occur before reinforcement is presented.
Fixed-Interval Schedule
a reinforcement schedule in which the correct response is reinforced after a fixed length of time since the last reinforcement.
Variable-Interval Schedule
A reinforcement schedule in which the correct response is reinforced after varying lengths of time following the last reinforcement.
Spontaneous Recovery
The reappearance of an extinguished response after the passage of time, without training.
Stimulus Generalization
The transfer of a learned response to a different but similar stimulus.
Stimulus Discrimination
Learning to respond to only one stimulus and to inhibit the response to all other stimuli.
Observational Learning
AKA Vicarious learning: Learning by observing other people’s behavior.
