Learning Theory

Question 1

Operant Conditioning - Define

Answer 1

Operant conditioning, also known as instrumental conditioning, is a method of learning normally attributed to B.F. Skinner, where the consequences of a response determine the probability of it being repeated. Through operant conditioning behavior which is reinforced (rewarded) will likely be repeated, and behavior which is punished will occur less frequently.

Question 2

Name three Reinforcers for a Dog

Answer 2

Food
Social attention 
Toys 
Secondary Reinforcer (clicker)
Access 
Environment

Question 3

Name three punishers for a dog

Answer 3

Removal of access
/ Attention
Physical aversives (shock collar, Choke)

Question 4

Define Lure

Answer 4

Reinforcer that is followed by dog (guiding the dog)

Question 5

Define Shaping

Answer 5

Reinforcement of successful approximations of an end goal behaviour

Question 6

Define Chaining

Answer 6

A sequence of behaviours in a specific order

Question 7

Capturing (Define)

Answer 7

Reinforcing a behaviour as it naturally occurs in its full form

Question 8

Fade Prompt or Lure

Answer 8

“new cue” ‘Old cue” then shaping

Question 9

Continuous Reinforcement Schedule

Answer 9

R every time it occurs

Question 10

Fixed Ratio Reinforcement Schedule

Answer 10

R after a specific number of responses

Question 11

Intermittent Ratio Reinforcement Schedule

Answer 11

Some (but not all) instances of behaviour are reinforced.

Question 12

Fixed Reinforcement Interval Schedule

Answer 12

Reinforcing a response with the exact same time period

Question 13

Intermittent Interval Reinforcment Schedule

Answer 13

Random time periods selected to reinforce behaviour

Question 14

Differential Reinforcement Schedule

Answer 14

R a set criteria (ie - only paying a 4 second nose touch, nothing else will be R)

Question 15

Deprivation

Answer 15

Removal of normal privilages (1 hour walk - reduced to no walk)

Question 16

Classical Conditioning

Answer 16

The process of learning in which one stimulus is paired with another stimulus, to elicit a specific emotional response.

Question 17

Flooding

Answer 17

Exposing animal to trigger until there is no longer a response

Question 18

Counter Conditioning

Answer 18

Changing a current conditioned response to an alternative response

Question 19

Desensitization

Answer 19

Gradual acclimatization to a stimuli

Question 20

Antecedant

Answer 20

The environment / anything that preceeds a behaviour

Question 21

Consequence

Answer 21

an outcome that directly impacts behaviour (follows a behaviour)