Learning Theories

Question 1

What are the three theories?

Answer 1

1) operant conditioning
2) cognitive theory of learning
3) bandura’s theory of social/observation learning

Question 2

What is the Operant Conditioning theory?

Answer 2

Skinner 1964
> This is a method of learning by association / connection
> Behaviour is shaped / modified / manipulated for example through practice
> Trial and error is a feature, therefore, performers will try different techniques to explore what is most successful
> Reinforcement takes place through successful outcomes
> Stimulus-response (S-R) bond will be strengthened
> Use of praise / reward is used e.g. for achieving goals in training
> Negative reinforcement / punishment can affect behaviour
e.g., being dropped from the team.
> S-R bonds might be weakened if response is incorrect
> Thorndike’s law of effect - the effect of the response dictates the next response, e.g a positive outcome / satisfaction from practice makes you continue.
> Thorndike’s law of exercise – the response should be practiced / rehearsed if learning is to take place, e.g. skills improve through training so you train with more focus.
> Thorndike’s law of readiness – the performer should be ready / mature / intellectually aware / capable to perform the response, e.g. you need to be physically mature / strong enough to start some activities / training.

Question 3

What is the cognitive theory of learning?

Answer 3

1. Cognitive theories are concerned with thinking and understanding rather than connecting certain stimuli to certain responses.
2. This theory suggests we learn by problem solving, some elements of trial and error , however, recognition is given to the fact the problem might not be solved immediately.
3. This method involves perception, intelligence and or reasoning on intellectual or perceptual or mental process.
4. Learning occurs through thinking about the whole problem, therefore, Gestalt believed to achieve the skill/problem/situation the whole situation had to be considered.
5. Individuals need insight and understanding if learning is to occur
6. The individual needs to be able to draw together and make sense of the intervening variables.
7. The theory suggests it’s a way of thinking to optimise learning, therefore, broaden schema.
8. Past experiences help form a response and these past experiences can help learn new movements.

Question 4

What is the Social learning and Observation leaning theory?

Answer 4

Bandura 1977
> This theory suggests we learn through watching demonstrations or watching the model
> The demonstration needs to be skilful and accurate if learning is to take place.
> The demonstration will have greatest effect if performed by a parent, coach, peer, role model or influential other.
> Attention improves if the model is a significant other, this is as effective selective attention occurs as the attention field narrows.
> If verbal guidance is provided at the same time it can heighten attention.
> Retention – the observer must be able to remember the demonstration, this increases in effectiveness if repeated or practiced. Mental rehearsal can improve retention of the mental image.
> Motor reproduction will occur if the individual is physically able to replicate the skill or mentally able. Therefore, the demonstration should match the physical capabilities of the performer.
> The individual needs to be motivated if they are to imitate the skill, external reinforcement of the model will increase the motivation to imitate it.
> Enjoyment increases the likelihood the person will remember / learning

Question 5

How was the Operant Conditioning theory proven?

Answer 5

> Used a rat in a box to show how positive reinforcement works
The box contained a lever on the side, when the rat knocked the lever a food pellet would drop into the box

Question 6

How was the Cognitive theory of learning proven?

Question 7

How was the Social learning and Observation leaning theory proven?

Answer 7

Through the Bobo doll experiment.
> 3 different groups of children watched adults either be aggressive, non-aggressive, or weren’t exposed.
> The children who watched aggressive to doll were aggressive and the group that got shown to not be aggressive weren’t.