Theories of learning Flashcards
What is operant conditioning?
Trail and error learning
A correct response is rewarded
This reinforces the correct response
The behaviour is changed
What is reinforcement?
A process that increases the probability of a behaviour reoccurring. It strengthens the stimulus response bond
What is positive reinforcement?
Presentation of a positive stimulus to the performer after a desired response
What is negative reinforcement?
Presentation of an aversive or unpleasant stimulus to the performer after an incorrect response
What is Thorndike’s Law?
Related to operant conditioning and based on strengthening S-R bonds.
The extent to which S-R bonds are developed depends on the extent to which the laws are applied (effect, exercise and readiness)
What is the law of effect?
Rehearsing or repeating actions strengthens reinforcement.
What is the law of exercise?
Positive reaction = S-R bonds strengthen
Negative reaction = S-R bonds weaken
What is the law of readiness?
The athlete must be both mentally and physically capable of performer the skill efficiently
What is the cognitive theory?
Concerned with thinking and understand than just connecting certain stimuli to certain responses.
Learning is best achieved by being given the whole problem to think about so that they can work out the best situation.
Learner will use intelligence, current knowledge and previous experience to plan or predict a solution
What is the social leaning theory?
Copying the behaviour of others
- behaviour will be copied if the role model is significant or has a high status
- form of visual guidance
- a demonstration is presented for the learner to copy
- process involves Bandura’s theory of attention, retention, motor reproduction and motivation
What is attention?
The learner must focus or selectively attend to the model. Verbal guidance helps the learner to focus on key points
What is retention?
Mental rehearsal
The learner needs to remember the demonstration which helps memory
What is motor reproduction?
The learner must be able to perform the skill. They must have the physical and mental capacity.
What is motivation?
The learner must want to copy the skill. Motivation to copy the skill increases if it is considered relevant or worthwhile.
The drive to copy is increased if the learned realises that their technique could be improved
