Question

Select the correct answer.

Which learning theory involves the concept of successive approximation?
O A. conditioning and social learning
OB.
social learning
classical conditioning
Ос.
D. operant conditioning

Answer 1

The correct answer is D. operant conditioning, which uses the concept of successive approximation, also known as shaping, to modify behaviors through consequences such as rewards or punishments.

Step-by-step explanation:

The learning theory that involves the concept of successive approximation is operant conditioning. Operant conditioning is an associative learning process where behaviors are modified by their consequences, especially through reinforcements or punishments. A key component of operant conditioning is the concept of successive approximation, also known as shaping, where behaviors are gradually trained by rewarding closer approximations of the desired behavior.

For example, a dolphin like Spirit at the National Aquarium in Baltimore learning to do flips in response to her trainer's whistle, and receiving fish as a reward, is an instance of operant conditioning employing successive approximation.