Question

So far in this course we have covered a variety of psychological theories, one of which includes an exploration of psychological perspectives on human thought and learning. For this assessment, you will create an essay at least 250 words in length that begins with a summary of operant and classical conditioning, in your own words. After providing a summary of each of these, breakdown where you see the similarities and differences between these two learning theories. Finally, explain how this relates to cognitive factors in learning such as to observational learning. As you complete this assessment, the concepts presented in the Week 2 Lecture will be particularly useful. Make sure to refer back to that lecture and summarize the necessary ideas in your own words.

Answer 1

Classical conditioning and operant conditioning are forms of learning that involve associations between stimuli or events. They differ in terms of the type of response and the role of conscious awareness. Observational learning adds social and cognitive aspects to the basic associative processes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Classical Conditioning:

Classical conditioning is a form of associative learning where organisms learn to associate two events that occur together. In Pavlov's famous experiment, he conditioned dogs to associate the sound of a bell with the presentation of food, which led to the dogs salivating at the sound of the bell alone. Classical conditioning involves a reflexive response to a stimulus that becomes associated with a different stimulus.

Operant Conditioning:

Operant conditioning is also a form of associative learning where behaviors are strengthened or weakened by the consequences they bring. In operant conditioning, an organism learns to associate a voluntary behavior with a consequence. For example, if a rat learns to press a lever to receive a food pellet, the behavior of lever-pressing is likely to increase. Operant conditioning involves the use of reinforcement and punishment to shape behavior.

Similarities and Differences:

Classical and operant conditioning are similar in that they both involve learning through associations between stimuli or events. However, they differ in terms of the type of response involved and the role of conscious awareness. Classical conditioning involves a reflexive response, while operant conditioning involves a voluntary response. Additionally, classical conditioning often occurs unconsciously, while operant conditioning typically involves conscious awareness of the consequences.

Relation to Observational Learning:

Observational learning is a form of learning that occurs through watching and imitating others. It is related to classical and operant conditioning in that it also involves learning through associations. However, observational learning adds social and cognitive layers to the basic associative processes. It involves the observation of models and the imitation of their behavior, which can be influenced by cognitive factors such as attention, memory, and motivation.