Learning Theories Flashcards
What does associationist mean?
A group of theories related to connecting stimulus and response.
These theories are often referred to as s-r theories. An individual is conditioned by stimuli which are ‘connected’ or ‘bonded’ to appropriate responses
What does reinforcement mean?
The process that increases the probability of behaviour occurring.
Reinforcement strengthens the stimulus-response bond.
Reinforcement can be positive or negative
What is positive reinforcement?
The stimulus is given when the desired response occurs
What is negative reinforcement?
The stimulus is withdrawn when the desired response occurs
What is punishment?
Giving a stimulus to prevent a response occurring not to be be confused with negative reinforcement
What is the law exercise?
Repeating or rehearsing the s-r connections is more likely to strengthen them. If the desired response occurs, reinforcement is necessary.
Example of law of exercise?
If a gymnast practises a floor routine repeatedly, then the stimulus-response bonds are repeated or “exercised”. The more times a skill is practised the more likely a response will be bonded to a particular stimulus
What is the law of effect?
If the response is followed by a “satisfier”, then the stimulus-response bond is strengthened. If the response is followed by an ‘annoyer’. Then the stimulus-response bond is weakened. This means that pleasant outcomes are likely to motivate the performer to repeat the action
Example of law of effect?
If a beginner in rugby is attempting a spin pass and is successful, then the ‘effect’ is deemed to be successful and it is more likely that the player will perform the skill is successfully again.
If the player is unsuccessful and the effect is failure- the ball does not go in the right direction-then the effect is one that is subsequently avoided
Law of readiness?
If reinforcement is to strengthen the learning bond the performer must both be physically and mentally capable of performing the skill
