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

• Cognitive theories are concerned with thinking and understanding rather than connecting certain stimuli to certain responses.
• 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.
• This method involves perception, intelligence and or reasoning on intellectual or perceptual or mental process.
• Learning occurs through thinking about the whole problem, therefore, Gestalt believed to achieve the skill/problem/situation the whole situation had to be considered.
• Individuals need insight and understanding if learning is to occur
• The individual needs to be able to draw together and make sense of the intervening variables.
• The theory suggests it’s a way of thinking to optimise learning, therefore, broaden schema.
• 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.