Final answer:
Thorndike's connectionism emphasizes learning through the association of stimuli and responses, with reinforcement being critical. Contrary to what one of the options suggests, learning in this theory is not passive but involves the active role of the learner. The principle of trial and error is also central to this learning theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
Features of Thorndike's Connectionism
Thorndike's theory of connectionism is centered around the idea that learning is the result of associations formed between stimuli and responses. This can be broken down into several key features:
- Reinforcement is crucial in learning, where behaviors followed by positive outcomes are more likely to be repeated, according to the law of effect.
- Learning often occurs through trial and error, where different responses are tried until a successful one is found.
- Learning involves the connection between stimuli and responses, a form of associative learning.
- Learning is not a passive process but rather involves active engagement from the learner.
In contrast to other theories at the time, Thorndike's connectionism emphasized the active role of the learner and the importance of consequences in shaping behavior. This foundational work laid the groundwork for later Behaviorists like B.F. Skinner who expanded on the idea that reinforcement and punishment play a significant role in operant conditioning.