Chapter 8: Learning

Learning Objectives

  • Describe how Pavlov’s early work in classical conditioning influenced the understanding of learning.
  • Review the concepts of classical conditioning, including unconditioned stimulus (US), conditioned stimulus (CS), unconditioned response (UR) and conditioned response (CR).
  • Explain the roles that extinction, generalization and discrimination play in conditioned learning.
  • Outline the principles of operant conditioning.
  • Explain how learning can be shaped through the use of reinforcement schedules and secondary reinforcement.
  • Understand the principles of learning by insight and observation.
  • Review the ways that learning theories can be applied to understanding and modifying everyday behaviour.
  • Describe the situations under which reinforcement may make people less likely to enjoy engaging in a behaviour.
  • Explain how principles of reinforcement are used to understand social dilemmas, such as the prisoner’s dilemma, and why people are likely to make competitive choices in them.

 

License

Icon for the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License

Introduction to Psychology Study Guide Copyright © 2021 by Sarah Murray is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book