Psychology: Learning & Cognition Flashcards

What is classical conditioning?

Answer: Learning through association between stimuli

Classical conditioning is a type of learning where an organism learns to associate two stimuli, such that one stimulus (the conditioned stimulus) comes to elicit a response previously elicited by another stimulus (the unconditioned stimulus). This associative learning process was famously demonstrated by Ivan Pavlov's experiments with dogs. It is fundamentally about learning through association between stimuli.

What is operant conditioning?

Answer: Learning through punishment and reinforcement

Operant conditioning is a type of learning in which behavior is strengthened if followed by a reinforcer or diminished if followed by a punisher. Developed by B.F. Skinner, this theory emphasizes that voluntary behaviors are learned through their consequences. Individuals learn to associate their actions with specific outcomes, leading to an increase or decrease in the likelihood of those actions recurring.

What is the role of reinforcement in operant conditioning?

Answer: It strengthens the behavior by providing rewards

In operant conditioning, reinforcement is any consequence that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Positive reinforcement involves adding a desirable stimulus (a reward) after a behavior, while negative reinforcement involves removing an aversive stimulus. Both types of reinforcement serve to strengthen the preceding behavior, making it more probable in the future by providing rewards.

What is the concept of shaping in operant conditioning?

Answer: Reinforcing a behavior until it is learned step-by-step

Shaping is an operant conditioning procedure used to teach complex behaviors by reinforcing successive approximations of the desired behavior. Instead of waiting for the exact behavior to occur, an individual is rewarded for actions that gradually get closer to the target behavior. This step-by-step process allows for the acquisition of new skills that might otherwise be difficult to learn.

What is cognitive learning?

Answer: Learning through mental processes such as memory

Cognitive learning emphasizes the role of internal mental processes, such as thinking, memory, problem-solving, and perception, in acquiring knowledge and skills. Unlike behavioral theories that focus solely on observable actions, cognitive learning theories explore how individuals process information, form concepts, and make decisions. It involves learning through mental processes such as memory and reasoning.

What is observational learning?

Answer: Learning by observing and imitating others

Observational learning, also known as social learning theory, describes the process of acquiring new behaviors or information by watching and imitating others. Pioneered by Albert Bandura, this type of learning involves four key processes: attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation. It highlights the importance of models in our environment for learning a wide range of behaviors by observing and imitating others.

What is the role of memory in learning?

Answer: Memory helps retain and recall information necessary for learning

Memory is fundamental to learning as it allows us to encode, store, and retrieve information and experiences. Without memory, newly acquired knowledge or skills would be immediately lost, preventing any lasting learning. It enables us to build upon past experiences, understand new concepts, and apply learned information to future situations, thus helping retain and recall information necessary for learning.

What is the concept of cognitive dissonance?

Answer: A state of confusion and conflict in thoughts

Cognitive dissonance is a psychological discomfort experienced when an individual holds two or more conflicting beliefs, ideas, values, or emotions, or when their behavior contradicts their beliefs. This mental tension motivates individuals to reduce the dissonance, often by changing their beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors. It represents a state of confusion and conflict in thoughts arising from inconsistent cognitions.

How do emotions influence cognition?

Answer: Emotions can enhance memory and decision-making

Emotions play a complex and significant role in cognition, often enhancing rather than hindering processes like memory and decision-making. Strong emotions can lead to more vivid and easily recalled memories (e.g., flashbulb memories) and can also serve as valuable heuristics or signals that guide our choices and judgments. While intense emotions can sometimes impair rational thought, moderate emotional states can sharpen focus and improve cognitive performance.