PAPER 2 - Learning Theories

Question 1

Define Operant Conditioning (Skinner)

Answer 1

Involves shaping the environment to manipulate behaviour and receiving rewards or reinforcement for these actions. It is commonly used in teaching motor skills and works on the principle that actions are made stronger by repititon

Question 2

What type of learning does operant conditioning support

Answer 2

Trial and error

Question 3

How can a coach accelerate the trial and error phase in operant conditioning

Answer 3

1. Make correct responses stronger
2. Re-direct incorrect responses

Question 4

What will positive reinforcement do for the performer in operant conditioning

Answer 4

Strengthen the S-R bond

Question 5

How can incorrect actions be weakened in operant conditioning

Answer 5

1. Use of negative reinforcement
2. Use punishment- e.g. running laps

Question 6

Sporing example of operant conditioning

Answer 6

A coach may direct the players to strike the ball into the right of the goal. If this is done they are rewarded. The area is then reduced to the top half of the right side, and then maybe the top right-hand corner only. Rewarding this behaviour strengthens the link.

Question 7

What laws are linked to operant conditioning and depend on how fully we develop an S-R bond

Answer 7

Thorndikes Laws

Question 8

What are Thorndike’s Laws

Answer 8

1. Law of exercise- repeating or rehearsing S-R bonds is more likely to strengthen them
2. Law of effect- If the response is followed by a ‘satisfier’ then the S-R bond is strengthened. If it is followed by an ‘annoyer’ than the S-R bond is weakened
3. Law of readiness- the performer must be physically and mentally able to perform the skill

Question 9

What does the Cognitive Theory of Learning ( Gestaltist view) suggest

Answer 9

Suggests that a perfromer learns by thinking about and understanding what is required of them rather than connecting stimuli ( Insight Learning)

Question 10

What type of practice does the cognitive learning theory support?

Answer 10

Whole practice

Question 11

What does the cognitive theory of learning suggest giving to young children to aid future learning and motor development?

Answer 11

Lots of sporting experiences

Question 12

Sporting example of Cognitive Theory of learning

Answer 12

A basketball player who has the benefits of zone defence explained to him and therefore understands when it is necessary to play this tactic

Question 13

What is Social/Observational learning (Bandura)

Answer 13

Sports coaches can use the fact that significant behaviour is often copied by using strategies to ensure that the learner copies desired behaviours (social learning)

Question 14

When is behaviour likely to be repeated in Observational Learning?

Answer 14

If the action is reinforced with success, particularly if it is a powerful image performed by a significant other/role model.

Question 15

What is the process of Observational Learning?

Answer 15

1. Attention- Performer must pay attention to the demonstration and focus on important cues
2. Retention- Observer must be able to remember the model presented
3. Motor reproduction- Observer must be physically able to imitate the skill
4. Motivation- Level of motivation is crucial