learning theories: operant conditioning

Question 1

according to operant conditioning, how does learning take place?

Answer 1

through trial and error

by forming and strengthening S-R bonds

by manipulating or changing the environment to trigger the desired response

Question 2

what are the three types of reinforcement

Answer 2

positive

negative

punishment

Question 3

describe positive reinforcement

Answer 3

the presentation of a pleasant stimulus (a satisfier) to the performer after the desired response

e.g. giving praise for a high work rate in hockey

Question 4

describe negative reinforcement

Answer 4

the presentation of an unpleasant stimulus (an annoyer) to the performer after an incorrect response

the unpleasant stimulus is taken away when the correct response occurs

e.g. when the tennis player plays a shot correctly

Question 5

describe punishment

Answer 5

the presentation of a very unpleasant stimulus to the performer after an incorrect of undesired response

e.g. substituting the player in football for using the wrong tactics

Question 6

what are thorndikes three laws?

Answer 6

law of effect

law of exercise

law of readiness

Question 7

describe the law of effect

Answer 7

positive reinforcement will strengthen the S-R bonds and will help learning

negative reinforcement will weaken S-R bonds

Question 8

describe the law of exercise

Answer 8

repeating the movement strengthens the S-R bonds and so helps learning

a lack of practice weakens S-R bonds

Question 9

describe the law of readiness

Answer 9

the performer must have the mental and physical capability to perform the skill

Question 10

using practical examples, describe operant conditioning (6)

Answer 10

1. the performer learns the new motor skill after the coach explains the whole skill
   e.g. a badminton player learns to smash when the they see the shuttle high and near the net
2. the correct behaviour is then reinforced
   e.g. a coach praising the player for performing the smash
3. this strengthens the S-R bonds
   e.g. so the smash is more likely to be repeated next time the stimulus is present
4. the performer will learn the skills faster is the reward is given on every occasion
   e.g. a coach gives praise everytime the smash os performed correctly
5. environmental manipulation can improve the bonds
   e.g. a coach drawing a circle on the floor for the player to aim the smash at
6. negative reinforcement/thorndikes laws