Theories Of Learning

Question 1

What are the three theories of learning

Answer 1

1. Cognitive theory
2. Operant conditioning theory
3. Bandora’s theory of social/observational learning

Question 2

What is the operant conditioning theory

Answer 2

The operant conditioning theory is if you manipulate the environment then you can get the desired response and strengthen the S-R bonds

Question 3

How does the operant theory of learning work

Answer 3

The theory of operant conditioning works by the association or connection between S-R bonds

Question 4

Give an example of operant conditioning

Answer 4

Rolling the ball to the left of a goalkeeper in order to build and strengthen S-R bonds to dive and save it

Question 5

What are Thorndyke’s three laws of operant conditioning

Answer 5

1. The law of effect
2. The law of exercise
3. The law of readiness

Question 6

How does Thorndyke’s law of effect apply to the operant conditioning theory of learning

Answer 6

Thorndyke’s law of effect states that positive reinforcement, whether intrinsic or extrinsic, can help strengthen the S-R bonds

Question 7

How does Thorndyke’s law of exercise apply to the operant theory of conditioning

Answer 7

Thorndyke’s law of exercise states that repeating/practising strengthens S-R bonds whereas not practising/reinforcing weakens S-R bonds

Question 8

How does Thorndyke’s law of readiness apply to the operant theory of learning

Answer 8

Thorndyke’s law of exercise states that performers must have maturity, physical and mental capacity before reinforcement can be used to strengthen the S-R bonds
If the learner is too young, immature or perceptually inexperienced then the skill can’s be learned so S-R bonds aren’t formed or strengthened

Question 9

What is the cognitive theory of learning

Answer 9

The cognitive theory of learning states that learners learn most effectively when they are given the whole skill to perform and have to work out blow to do it best using past experiences and using connections

Question 10

Give an example of the cognitive theory of learning

Answer 10

An example of the cognitive learning theory is a rugby coach telling the players in the scrum to work together to perform the most effective drive

Question 11

What is Bandora’s theory of social/observational learning

Answer 11

Bandora’s theory of social/observational learning states that learning is most effective by copying good demonstrations. It requires attention, retention, motor production and motivation

Question 12

How does attention apply to Bandora’s theory of social/observational learning

Answer 12

Learners watch demonstrations with clear verbal guidance from a high level performer

Question 13

How does retention apply to Bandora’s theory of social/observational learning

Answer 13

For retention, performers must remember the demonstration the will have been repeated multiple times and then practice it

Question 14

How does motor production apply to Bandora’s theory of social/observational learning

Answer 14

Motor production is the performer bust be physically and mentally able to reproduce the skill demonstrated

Question 15

How does motivation apply to Bandora’s theory of observational/social learning

Answer 15

Performers must want to reproduce the skill performed because they aesthetically appreciate it or because they believe that it will be worthwhile

Question 16

Define positive reinforcement

Answer 16

The presentation of a pleasant stimulus following a desired action

Question 17

Define negative reinforcement

Answer 17

Negative is the presentation on an unpleasant stimulus following a wrong action. The presentation is removed after the correct response is done

Question 18

Define punishment

Answer 18

Punishment is the presentation of a very unpleasant stimulus to the performer after an undesired action

Question 19

Identify 4 factors that causes good modelling in sport

Answer 19

1. High status performer
2. Uses relevant and socially acceptable behaviour
3. Can help for them to be the same level as the observer
4. If the demonstration is clear

Question 20

State three thinks that the cognitive theory of learning involves

Answer 20

1. The gestalt approach to learning
2. Optimising learning through thinking
3. Perception or intelligence
4. Intervening variables (drawing together the different aspects of the problem)
5. Using past experiences to solve the problem
6. Insight or intuitive learning