Lecture 4 - Early Learning Theory

Question 1

Pavlov

Answer 1

His research focused on studying dogs.
“Psychic reflexes”
Later became known as conditioned reflexes.

Question 2

Reflex Theory

Answer 2

Pavlov
Unconditioned response paired with a unconditioned stimulus, becomes connected and becomes conditioned therefore it starts eliciting a similar response seen in the unconditioned response.

Question 3

Monolithic Theory

Answer 3

A limitation to Pavlov.

Claimed that all learning (including instrumental learning) consists of conditioning of reflexes

Question 4

Hull

Answer 4

Hull’s ‘mechanistic behaviourism’
Hull believed Watson’s behaviourism was too simplistic, but basic approach was correct

Drive reduction theory
Not just about learning, but also about motivation

Question 5

Hull-Spence S-R Rft Theory

Answer 5

Reinforcement ‘stamps in’ connection between S and R

Question 6

Tolman

Answer 6

Behaviour is goal directed (i.e. purposive). Shared Hul’s idea that behaviour is goal directed (drive, motivation).

Reinforcement isn’t need for learning: it provides incentive to perform