Ch 5 - Learning Definitions Flashcards
(18 cards)
What is learning?
a relatively permanent change in behaviour due to experience
What is a reflex action?
A simple, automatic, involuntary response to a specific stimulus that comes from the nervous system
What is a fixed-action pattern? (FAP)
FAP or species specific behaviour is an instinctual, inherited (fixed) sequence of movements (pattern of actions) found in almost all members of the species that is performed without previous experience
What is maturation
the physical development of the body, brain and nervous system at fairly predictable ages in the life cycle
What is the limbic system?
a number of structures that form a doughnut-shaped neural system between the hindbrain and the cerebral hemispheres
What is the cerebellum?
A structure attached to the rear of the brainstem that helps coordinate voluntary movement and balance
What is a pre-synaptic neuron?
a neuron that sends a nerve impulse across the synapse to the post synaptic neuron
What is a post-synaptic neuron?
a neuron that receives a nerve impulse sent across the synapse from the pre-synaptic neuron
What is synaptogenesis?
the process by which synapses are formed between neurons
What are filopodia?
finger-like extensions of growth cones that search for target cells during the process of synaptogenesis
What is brain plasticity?
the ability of the brain to rewire itself, because neurons are able to alter and form new synapses
What is developmental plasticity?
Changes in the brain’s neural structure, according to our maturation blueprint, in response to experiences.
What is adaptive plasticity?
when learning something new or when recovering and adapting to trauma or injury. “sprouting” (end of dendrites sprouting out) and “rerouting” (move around blocked path) of neurons.
What is neurogenesis?
the production of new brain cells
What is a critical period?
time of increased sensitivity to environment when conditions are optimal for certain capacities to emerge in an organism
(certain events must occur during critical period for person to develop normally)
What are sensitive periods?
the optimal time for the developing brain to receive specific simulation in order to learn particular behaviours (behaviours can be learnt after sensitive period but its harder)
What is experience-expectant learning? (sensitive periods and critical periods)
all members of a species are expected to experience the particular stimuli in order for normal development to occur
(variation in this can result in permanent effects)
What is experience dependant learning?
unique and non-vital learning that can occur any time through life. Does NOT need to occur in a sensitive or critical period (causes new growth and refining of brain and neurons)
