Learning Approach Flashcards
(18 cards)
Who was the researcher for classical conditioning
Pavlov research the theory of learning through association
What is a reflex
an automatic response to a stimulus, immediate. Can be learnt / conditioned
What is a CS
The NS now caused a learnt, reflexive reaction (as it is associated with the UCS) so becomes a CS
What is a stimulus
Any change in the environment that we register
What is extinction
If the CS is not paired with the UCS occasionally after conditioning, then the CR will die out
What is response
change in out behaviour due to a stimulus
What is UCR
The unconditioned stimulus = the original stimulus that causes a reflexive reaction, the reactions are unlearned and natural
What is CR
The conditioned response
What is NS
The neutral stimulus = a stimulus that causes no reaction
What is UCR
The unconditioned response = the original reflection reaction in classical conditioning
What is stimulus generalisation
a classical conditioning response is seen with other stimuli that are similar to the CS. The more similar the stronger the response
What is spontaneous recovery
This occurs after extinction, the CR returns when there is no more pairing of the NS and the UCS. It soon becomes extinct again
What are the strengths of CC
- There is supporting evidence = Watson & Rayner - paired loud noise with a white rat, Little Albert CR of fear
- There is supporting evidence = Pavlov - paired food with a metronome, dogs CR of salivating
What are the weaknesses of CC
- Limited explanation of human learning, only focuses on reflex behaviour, ignores operant conditioning, meaning has limited application, usefulness , ability
- doesn’t take into account human individuality and free will
what was pavlov’s aim and method
aim - to explain the role of conditioned reflexes in eating behaviours of dogs
method - paired metronome with food 20 times, he tried forward and backward conditioning, DV = number of drops of salivation produced
What were strengths of Pavlov
- Quantitative data, objective and easy to analyse
- good internal validity, in a sound proofed lab, controls the EVs, means results are true and accurate
- Used standardised procedure
What are the weaknesses of Pavlov
- Poor ecological validity, dogs were strapped to harnesses, dogs not behaving naturally, low mundane realism
- Unethical, dogs had to undergo unnecessary procedure, dogs will be in discomfort / pain, lacks reliability and validity
What is operant conditioning
