Cognition: Operant vs Classical Conditioning

Question 1

Role of Learner: Operant

Answer 1

Learner must be actively involved in order to obtain reinforcement

Question 2

Role of Learner: Classical

Answer 2

Learning is passive, and the response occurs automatically without effort

Question 3

Timing of Stimulus and Response: Operant

Answer 3

• Presentation of reinforcement depends on response occurring first.
• Association occurs between the stimulus and the response.
• Learning occurs faster if reinforcement occurs soon after response.

Question 4

Timing of Stimulus and Response: Classical

Answer 4

• Response depends on the UCS being presented first
• Timing between the UCS and NS produces association
• Timing needs to be close and the order of stimuli is vital (NS before UCS)

Question 5

Nature of Response: Operant

Answer 5

It is voluntary and goal directed, usually produced by the CNS

Question 6

Nature of Response: Classical

Answer 6

It is reflexive and involuntary, usually produced by the autonomic NS