3.9 Social, Cognitive, and Neurological Factors in Learning

Cognitive map

A mental representation of the layout of one’s environment; for example, after exploring a maze, rats act as if they have learned a cognitive map of it

Latent learning

Learning that occurs but is not apparent until there is an incentive to demonstrate it

Insight learning

Solving problems through sudden insight; contrasts with strategy-based solutions

Observational learning

Learning by observing others (also called social learning)

Modeling

The process of observing and imitating a specific behavior

Mirror neurons

Neurons that some scientists believe fire when we perform certain actions or observe another doing so; the brain’s mirroring of another’s action may enable imitation and empathy

Prosocial behaviors

Positive, constructive, helpful behavior; the opposite of antisocial behavior

Antisocial behavior

Negative, destructive, harmful behavior; the opposite of prosocial behavior