Chapter 9 - Mechanisms of Learning Flashcards

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2
Q

Define learning.

A

Learning can be defined as a relatively permanent change in behaviour that occurs as a result of experience.

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3
Q

What is a reflex?

A

Automatic involuntary behaviour that does not require prior experience and occurs in the same way each time.

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4
Q

What is a fixed-action pattern?

A

A fixed-action pattern of behaviour occurs when all members of a species produce an identical response to the same specific environmental stimuli.

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5
Q

How do fixed-action patterns differ from reflexes?

A

Reflexes consist of a single or simple response, whereas a fixed-action pattern is more complex, usually consisting of a sequence of responses.

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6
Q

Define maturation.

A

Maturation is a developmental process leading towards maturity, based on the orderly sequence of changes that occur in the nervous system and other bodily structures controlled by genetic inheritance.

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7
Q

How do two neurons communicate?

A

They do so by sending a neurotransmitter across the synaptic gap, the space between the axon ending of one neuron and the dendrite of another.

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8
Q

What are the three components of the synapse?

A

The synaptic gap, the presynaptic neuron, and the postsynaptic neuron.

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9
Q

What is long-term potentiation?

A

LTP refers to the longlasting strengthening of the synaptic connections of neurons, resulting in the enhanced or more effective functioning of the neurons whenever they are activated.

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10
Q

Define plasticity.

A

Plasticity is the ability of the brain’s neural structure or function to be changed by experience throughout the lifespan.

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11
Q

What is developmental plasticity?

A

Developmental plasticity refers to changes in the brain’s neural structure in response to experience during its growth and development.

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12
Q

What is synaptogenesis?

A

The process of forming new synapses.

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13
Q

What is synaptic pruning?

A

The process of eliminating synaptic connections.

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14
Q

What is adaptive plasticity?

A

Adaptive plasticity refers to changes occuring in the brain’s neural structure to enable adjustment to experience, to compensate for lost function and/or to maximise remaining functions in the event of brain damage.

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15
Q

What is a sensitive period?

A

A specific period of time in development when an organism is more responsive to certain environmental stimuli or experiences.

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