Final answer:
The gradual reduction in feedback refers to the process in a negative feedback loop where the feedback mechanism is lessened over time, ultimately leading to a decrease in the response of the learner or system. This concept is fundamental in both biological systems and learning processes, where it helps maintain a balanced state.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of a gradual reduction in the amount of feedback provided to a learner relates to the principle of negative feedback loops in learning and biological systems. In biology, a negative feedback loop is a control mechanism that aims to reduce excessive responses and keep variables within a normal range. This concept can be compared to a driver approaching a wall; as the driver gets closer to the wall, they receive visual cues to slow down. However, if we were to blindfold the driver and provide delayed verbal descriptions of the proximity to the wall, this delayed feedback could result in a crash unless the entire process is slowed down substantially.
In the context of learning, negative feedback is used to gradually decrease the strength of a response over time. When an unconditioned stimulus is no longer presented with a conditioned stimulus, the organism shows a weaker and weaker response, eventually leading to the disappearance of the conditioned response. This same mechanism is applicable when examining systems in living organisms that are essential to life processes, where changes in concentrations of key molecules can affect negative feedback mechanisms and therefore, the overall function of an organism.