Psychology Chapter 6 - Types of Learning

Types of Learning

• PQ4R: A study method involving the steps: Preview, Question, Read, Reflect, Recite, Review.
• Cognitive Factors: Includes latent learning and observational learning which affect how individuals learn and develop behavior.

Classical Conditioning

• Definition: A learning process where one stimulus elicits a response typically produced by another stimulus.
• Key Factors: Comprise stimulus and response dynamics; the foundation of classical conditioning.
• Forms: Encompasses phenomena like taste aversion, extinction, spontaneous recovery, generalization, and discrimination.
• Applications: Used in techniques such as flooding, counter-conditioning, and the Bell-and-pad method to modify behaviors or fears.

Operant Conditioning

• Definition: A learning process where reinforcement increases the likelihood of a behavior reoccurring following a stimulus.
• Techniques: Incorporates methods such as shaping, programmed learning, and effective classroom discipline strategies.
• Reinforcement: The main element that strengthens the occurrence of behaviors. Can be positive or negative.
• Types of Reinforcement:
  • Positive Reinforcers: Enhance behavior frequency when applied.
  • Negative Reinforcers: Increase behavior frequency when their removal occurs.

Schedules of Reinforcement

• Continuous Reinforcement: Behavior is reinforced every time it occurs.
• Partial Reinforcement: Response is reinforced only some of the time.
• Fixed Interval Schedule: Reinforces behavior after a specified time has passed.
• Variable Interval Schedule: Reinforces at unpredictable intervals.
• Fixed Ratio Schedule: Reinforces after a predetermined number of responses.
• Variable Ratio Schedule: Reinforces after an unpredictable number of responses.

Responses in Classical Conditioning

• Unconditioned Stimulus (US): Triggers an automatic, unlearned response.
• Unconditioned Response (UR): The automatic reaction to an unconditioned stimulus.
• Conditioned Stimulus (CS): A previously neutral stimulus that now elicits a learned response.
• Conditioned Response (CR): The learned response to a conditioned stimulus.

Concepts in Conditioning

• Extinction: Happens when the conditioned stimulus is no longer paired with the unconditioned stimulus, leading to the decrease of the conditioned response.
• Generalization: Tendency to respond similarly to stimuli that are similar to the conditioned stimulus.
• Discrimination: Ability to differentiate responses to different stimuli that are not similar.

Techniques for Fear Reduction

• Flooding: Involves exposure to the feared stimulus until the fear response is extinguished.
• Systematic Desensitization: A gradual process of reducing fear through relaxation techniques.
• Counterconditioning: Pairing a pleasant stimulus with a feared one to reduce fear.

Learning Theories

• Latent Learning: Learning that remains unexpressed until circumstances allow for its application.
• Observational Learning: Learning that occurs by watching others perform tasks.

Key Figures

• Ivan Pavlov: Conducted foundational research in classical conditioning, notably with dogs salivating in response to a bell.

Additional Notes

• Spontaneous Recovery: Reappearance of an extinguished conditioned response after a pause.
• Primary Reinforcer: An innately reinforcing stimulus that directly fulfills biological needs.

Test your knowledge on the types of learning discussed in Psychology Chapter 6. This quiz covers key terms like PQ4R, cognitive factors, and classical conditioning. It's designed to help reinforce your understanding of these essential concepts in psychology.