Final answer:
The learning taking place in this scenario is Anticipatory Conditioning, a type of cognitive learning. From the given options, the closest would be Observational Learning, as it involves an internal mental process like anticipation.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the example given, where Molly was ecstatic learning about her family's plan to go to the state fair, the type of learning that is happening is Anticipatory Conditioning. This is considered a form of cognitive learning, as it involves anticipating an event or reward and emotional responses to it.
In this scenario, Molly is not exchanging a behavior for a reward (operant conditioning), and she is not associating a neutral stimulus with another stimulus to produce a reaction (classical conditioning). Also, Molly is not learning by observing and replicating another individual’s behaviour (observational learning). She merely reacts to the forthcoming event, which is typically associated with joy and enthusiasm, thus triggering her excited emotion.
So, although cognitive learning is not listed as an option, the closest appropriate answer to the provided options would be Observational learning (Option C), as it involves a form of internal mental processes, such as anticipation.
Learn more about Anticipatory Conditioning