Classical and Operant Conditioning
Classical and Operant Conditioning
•Definition
• Learning process where an automatic response
becomes associated with a specific stimulus
Pavlov's Experiment
•Background
• Initial observation: Dogs salivated at the sound of a
food cart
•Experiment Setup
• Ringing a bell before presenting food
• Observed that dogs salivated to the bell alone
Key Concepts of Classical Conditioning
•Acquisition
• Rate of learning depends on the noticeability of the
stimulus and timing
•Extinction
• Conditioned response weakens if CS is presented without
US
•Spontaneous Recovery
• CR reappears after a period of rest
•Stimulus Generalization
• Responding to similar stimuli (e.g., other ringing sounds)
•Stimulus Discrimination
• Differentiating between similar stimuli and responding
Operant Conditioning Overview
•Definition
• Learning process where behavior is influenced
by consequences
Skinner’s Experiment
•Example
• Lab rats pressing a lever for food (positive
reinforcement) or avoiding shock (negative
reinforcement)
Key Concepts of Operant Conditioning
•Reinforcement
• Increases the likelihood of a behavior occurring again
• Positive Reinforcement: Adding a stimulus (e.g., praise)
• Negative Reinforcement: Removing a stimulus (e.g., pain
relief)
•Punishment
• Decreases the likelihood of a behavior occurring again
• Positive Punishment: Adding a stimulus (e.g., fine)
• Negative Punishment: Removing a stimulus (e.g., privileges
Everyday Applications of Operant Conditioning
•Natural Settings
• Real-world examples of reinforcement and
punishment
•Structured Settings
• Examples in classrooms and therapy sessions
Cognitive Approaches to Learning
•Definition
• Emphasis on internal mental processes:
thinking, problem-solving, memory
Key Concepts of Cognitive Learning
•Insight Learning
• Sudden realization of a solution
•Observational Learning
• Learning by observing others (e.g.,
Bandura’s Bobo doll experiment)
Social Cognitive Theory
•Major Components:
• Observational Learning: Learning behaviors by
watching others.
• Models: Real (teachers, peers, supervisors) and
Symbolic (fictional characters).
Observational Learning
Examples
•Positive Example: A manager teaching ethical
behavior and customer interaction techniques.
•Negative Example: Employees mimicking
unethical behaviors observed in colleagues.
Cognitive Behavioral Theory
•Focus:
• SCT: Learning through observation and modeling.
• CBT: Internal cognitive processes and their impact
on emotions and behavior.
•Application:
• SCT: Learning new behaviors, role modeling.
• CBT: Changing thought patterns to influence
behavior and emotions.
Practical Applications
1. Enhances learning
2. Boosts confidence
3. Enhances comprehension
4. Improves problem-solving skills
5. Help learn new things faster
6. Teaches to form concept formation (think abstract)