Chapter 5: Models to explain learning Part 3

Question 1

Describe the role of the learner in classical conditioning:

Answer 1

The learner is a passive participant in the conditioning process, where they essentially have no control over the learning process

Question 2

Describe the role of the learner in operant conditioning:

Answer 2

The learner is an active participant in the learning process, where they have control over the learning process.

Question 3

Compare the timing of the stimulus and response in classical and operant conditioning:

Answer 3

In classical conditioning the timing of the 2 stimuli (NS, then UCS) needs to be very close (ideally about 1/2 a second) and the sequencing is vital (the NS must come before the UCS), whereas, in operant conditioning, while learning generally occurs faster when the reinforcement or punishment occurs soon after the response (behaviour), there can be a considerable time difference between them.

Question 4

Compare the timing of presentation of the stimulus and response in classical and operant conditioning:

Answer 4

In classical conditioning, the response depends on the presentation of the UCS occurring first, whereas, in operant conditioning, the presentation of the reinforcer or punisher depends on the response occurring first.

Question 5

Compare the association of the stimulus and response in classical and operant conditioning:

Answer 5

In classical conditioning, the timing of the 2 stimuli (NS, the UCS) produces an association between them that conditions the learner to anticipate the UCS and respond to it even if it is not presented, whereas, in operant conditioning, the association that is conditioned is between the stimulus and response.

Question 6

Compare the voluntary/involuntary nature of the responses in classical and operant conditioning:

Answer 6

• In classical conditioning, the response by the learner is usually reflexive involuntary
• In operant conditioning, the response by the learner is usually voluntary but may also be involuntary.

Question 7

Compare the nature of what the responses involve in classical and operant conditioning:

Answer 7

• In classical conditioning, the response often involves the action of the autonomic NS, and the association of the 2 stimuli is often not conscious or deliberate
• In operant conditioning, the response may involve the autonomic NS but often involves higher order brain process because the response is conscious, intentional and often goal-directed.

Question 8

Compare acquisition in classical and operant conditioning:

Answer 8

• In classical conditioning, the association of 2 stimuli, the NS and UCS, provides the basis of learning
• In operant conditioning, behaviour is associated with consequences that follow it

Question 9

Compare extinction in classical and operant conditioning:

Answer 9

• In classical conditioning, extinction takes place over a period when the UCS is withdrawn or is no longer present and the CS is repeatedly presented alone
• In operant conditioning, extinction also occurs over time, but after reinforcement is longer given

Question 10

When does observational learning occur and why is it often called modeling?

Answer 10

When someone uses observation of a model’s actions and the consequences of those actions to guide their future actions.
-Is often called modeling, because the person being observed is referred to as the model

Question 11

What is social learning?

Answer 11

A theory that proposes that people learn from those around them, with or without reinforcement.

Question 12

When does vicarious conditioning occur?

Answer 12

When we watch a model’s behaviour being reinforced or punished and then subsequently behave in the same or modified way (or refrain from the behaviour).

Question 13

What is vicarious reinforcement? Give an example:

Answer 13

It increases the likelihood of the observer behaving in a similar way to a model whose behaviour is being reinforced.
Eg. Seeing someone getting an A+ because they studied hard.

Question 14

What is vicarious punishment? Give an example:

Answer 14

It decreases the likelihood of the observer behaving in a similar way after seeing a behaviour being punished.
Eg. Seeing someone getting in trouble for eating with their mouth open.

Question 15

List the elements of observational learning:

Answer 15

-Attention
-Retention
-Reproduction
-Motivation
-Reinforcement
(ARRMR)

Question 16

What is attention?

Answer 16

When we pay attention (actively observe) in order to observe the modeled behaviour.

Question 17

List some of the factors which influence attention:

Answer 17

• The motivation and interest level of the observer
• Personality characteristics of the model
• Attractiveness

Question 18

What is retention in?

Answer 18

When we mentally retain (store a mental image) what has been observed.
-Behaviour is stored as a mental representation to be used at a later time

Question 19

How does memory play an active role in observational learning?

Answer 19

Responses learned by the model are often not needed until some time after they have been acquired.

Question 20

What is reproduction inand what restrict this element?

Answer 20

When we are physically and psychologically capable of reproducing the behaviour.
-Our ability to reproduce the modelled response may be restricted by physical or intellectual limitations.

Question 21

What is motivation in?

Answer 21

When we are motivated (want) to perform the behaviour.

-The individual must have the desire and want to reproduce the behaviour.

Question 22

What is the effect of reinforcement in relation to observational learning?

Answer 22

It influences the motivation to perform or the likelihood of reproduction.
-Unless the behavioural response provides a reward for you, it is unlikely that you will want to learn it.

Question 23

List the sources of reinforcement in relation to observational learning and give examples:

Answer 23

-The model (external reinforcement)
Eg. A parent praising their child for imitating their behaviour
-A third person (external reinforcement)
Eg. A parent praising their child for imitating an older sibling
-Personally (internal reinforcement)
Eg. A feeling of satisfaction is felt due to the imitation of behaviour
-Vicariously (indirectly)