TA Learning Theories & Psychology 2

Question 1

A student watches a peer solve a math problem correctly and then attempts the same method herself. This best illustrates which concept from Bandura's social learning theory?

Accepted Answer

Observational learning

Answer

Observational learning (modeling) occurs when a person acquires new behaviors by watching others perform them.

Question 2

According to Vygotsky, which term describes tasks a student can complete independently without any adult help?

Accepted Answer

Actual developmental level

Answer

The actual developmental level refers to what a learner can do independently, as opposed to what they can do with assistance.

Question 3

A teaching assistant notices that a student's disruptive behavior increases whenever the TA pays attention to it. Applying operant conditioning, what should the TA do?

Accepted Answer

Ignore the behavior to remove reinforcement

Answer

Extinction occurs when a behavior is no longer reinforced; ignoring attention-seeking misbehavior removes the reinforcer.

Question 4

Erik Erikson's stage 'Industry vs. Inferiority' typically corresponds to which grade-school age range?

Accepted Answer

Ages 6–12

Answer

During ages 6–12, children work to develop a sense of competence and industry; failure leads to feelings of inferiority.

Question 5

A TA praises a student's effort rather than their intelligence after they complete a difficult task. This practice is most consistent with promoting which mindset?

Accepted Answer

Growth mindset

Answer

Praising effort reinforces the belief that abilities can be developed through hard work, which is the core of a growth mindset.

(TA) Teaching Assistant Certification Practice Test

(TA) Teaching Assistant Certification Practice Test

TA Learning Theories & Psychology 2