Overview
This section defines learning in psychology, distinguishes it from instincts and reflexes, and introduces three main types of learning: classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning.
Instincts, Reflexes, and Learning
- Instincts and reflexes are innate (unlearned) behaviors present from birth.
- Reflexes are simple, automatic motor or neural reactions to specific environmental stimuli.
- Instincts are more complex, innate behaviors triggered by broader events like maturation or seasonal changes.
- Both reflexes and instincts help organisms adapt without prior experience or learning.
- Learned behaviors involve lasting changes due to experience, distinguishing them from innate behaviors.
Definition and Nature of Learning
- Learning is a relatively permanent change in behavior or knowledge resulting from experience.
- Learning requires acquiring knowledge and skills that are not present at birth.
- It involves conscious and unconscious processes and is often studied through associations formed between events.
Associative Learning and Its Types
- Associative learning occurs when organisms connect stimuli or events that happen together.
- Classical conditioning (Pavlovian) involves associating two stimuli that repeatedly occur together.
- Operant conditioning involves associating a behavior with its consequence, such as reinforcement (reward) or punishment.
- Observational learning occurs by watching others and imitating their behavior, without direct experience.
Examples of Three Forms of Learning
- In classical conditioning, a stimulus (like lightning) predicts another (thunder), leading to learned associations.
- In operant conditioning, behaviors (like a dog sitting) are learned through consequences (treats or punishments).
- In observational learning, individuals learn by watching and imitating others’ successful or unsuccessful actions.
The Role of Behaviorism
- All three learning approaches are central to behaviorism, which focuses on observable behaviors.
- Other psychology traditions, such as memory and cognition, also contribute to the study of learning.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Learning — A relatively permanent change in behavior or knowledge from experience.
- Reflex — An automatic, simple response to a specific stimulus.
- Instinct — A complex, innate behavior triggered by broader events.
- Associative Learning — Learning by connecting events that occur together.
- Classical Conditioning — Learning to associate two stimuli that repeatedly occur together.
- Operant Conditioning — Learning to associate a behavior with its consequence (reward or punishment).
- Observational Learning — Learning by watching others and imitating their actions.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review details of classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning in the following sections.
- Be able to distinguish between reflexes, instincts, and learned behaviors for upcoming assessments.