Final answer:
Latent learning is learning that is not immediately demonstrated until there is a reason to do so. It differs from the law of effect, which is about behavior being influenced by its consequences. Observational learning is a related concept where learning occurs by watching others.
Step-by-step explanation:
Learning that is not immediately expressed and occurs without any obvious reinforcement is known as latent learning. This type of learning becomes evident when there is a reason to demonstrate it, such as a change in context or necessity. The classic example in psychology is the experiment with rats in a maze where they developed a cognitive map even without reinforcement; the learning was only demonstrated when food was placed at the end of the maze. Latent learning also occurs in humans, such as when a child learns a route by watching their parents and later uses that knowledge when needed.Edward Thorndike's law of effect is related but different: it suggests that behaviors followed by satisfying consequences are likely to be repeated, whereas those followed by unpleasant consequences are discouraged. Learning and behavior can also be influenced by different forms of reinforcement. Operant conditioning is a form of learning where behavior is influenced by the consequences that follow, which can be in the form of positive or negative reinforcement or punishment.Observational learning is an example where learning occurs by watching the actions of others, such as a child learning how to tie shoes from a parent. This form of learning underscores the importance of models in the learning process. Associative learning is a more basic process that occurs when our minds make connections between events, and this can be seen in classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning.