Learning Theories

Question 1

What are the 3 learning theories?

Answer 1

Operant conditioning
Observational / social learning
Cognitive learning

Question 2

What is operant conditioning?

Answer 2

The learner will respond to stimuli through trial and error
Involves the learner strengthening the S-R bond
Only shaping behaviour if reinforcement is present

Question 3

What does operant conditioning strengthen?

Answer 3

The S-R bond

Question 4

How can we strengthen the S-R bond?

Answer 4

Through thorndike’s laws

Question 5

What are thorndike’s laws (3) for strengthening the S-R bond?

Answer 5

Law of exercise
Law of effect
Law of readiness

Question 6

What are thorndike’s laws (3) for strengthening the S-R bond?

Answer 6

Law of exercise - practice and reinforcement
Law of effect - reinforcement means bond strengthens
Law of readiness - performer must be both physically and mentally capable of performing the skill

Question 7

What is observational / social learning?

Answer 7

Involves copying the behavior of others

Question 8

Banduras model of observational learning (ARRM) ?

Answer 8

Attention - performer must be paying attention to the demonstration
Retention - performer must be able to remember the demonstration
Reproduction - performer must be physically able to carry out the skill
Motivation - performer must want to do the skill

Question 9

What is cognitive learning?

Answer 9

Concerned with understanding and thinking
Problem solving approach
Using past experience and available stimuli

Question 10

What are insight theories in cognitive learning?

Answer 10

Past experiences are used to solve new problems

Question 11

What are gestalt theories in cognitive learning?

Answer 11

Information from the environment is used to solve the problem