learning Flashcards
Learning approaches
Only interested in studying behaviour
Lab studies
All behaviour is learnt
Blank slate
Classical conditioning- pavlov dogs association
Unconditioned stimulus-> unconditioned response
Neutral stimulus-> no conditioned response
Unconditioned stimulus + neutral stimulus-> unconditioned response
Conditioned stimulus-> conditioned response
Strength-well controlled research
Focuses on measurement of observable behaviour – lab settings
Behaviour- stimulus response unit
Allowing cause and effect
Scientific credibility
Counterpoint
Oversimplified the learning process
Reducing behaviour to simple components
Ignored an important influence on learning- human thought
More complex than observable behaviour alone
Operant conditioning- skinner rats consequences
Positive reinforcement- receiving a reward
Negative reinforcement- take something unwanted away
Punishment- unpleasant consequences of behaviour
Real world application
Strength- applied to real world behaviour and problems
Token econ system in prisons
Increase the value of behaviourist approach
explain phobias too
Environmental determinism
Limitation- sees all behaviour as conditioned by past conditionings experiences
Our past conditioning history determines the outcome
Ignores the possibility of free will
Social learning theory
Assumptions
Behaviour is learning through experience
People learn- observation and imitation
Vicarious reinforcement
Role of mediational processes
Attention Retention Motor reproduction Motivation ARMRM First two= learning behaviour Last two= doing the behaviour
Identification
More likely to imitate someone they identity with
Role model- process of imitating a role model is called modelling
Cognitive factors
Strength- recognises the important of cognitive factors in learning
Neither classical or operant offer an account of learning
Use info to make judgement on actions
More comprehensive explanation
Counterpoint
Little reference to bio factors
Bio differences influence learning potential but learning was determined by the environment
Observational learning may be result of mirror neurons in the brain allowing us to empathise with and imitate other people
Bio factors underemphasised in slt
Contrived lab studies
Limitation- evidence was gathered in lab studies
Demand characteristics
Main purpose of the doll is to strike it the children were simply behaving in a way that they thought to be expected of them
Research may tell us little about how children actually learn
Real world application
Strength- explaining cultural differences
Account for how children learn from others around them
Explain social/ cultural norms are transmitted
Useful understanding of a range of behaviour
Increases value for the approach
Reciprocal determinism
strength- free will
Idea that we are influenced by our environment but also have am influence in the behaviour we perform
Suggest free will
Influences of cognitive variables on social learning
More realistic and flexible position
