Learning theories

define cognitive learning theory

learning best achieved by practising whole skill

cognitive learning theory theorist

Gestalt

steps of cognitive learning theory

perception of problem

draw on previous experience

trial + error using intervening variables

insight moment

define social learning theory

behaviour is learned from the environment through socialisation

SLT theorist

Bandura

Bandura’s model of observational learning

demonstration

attention - focus on cues

retention - remember what they have seen

motor reproduction - must have physical ability to replicate

motivation - won’t replicate if they don’t want to

define operant conditioning

building S-R bonds between stimulus and correct response

operant conditioning theorist

Skinner

steps of operant conditioning

stimulus

trial + error

modification

reinforcement

describe the types of reinforcement

positive reinforcement - praising correct response

negative reinforcement - criticising incorrect response

punishment - noxious stimulus to prevent incorrect response re-occurring

describe Thorndike’s laws

law of readiness - performer must have the mental + physical capability to complete the skill before attempting it

law of exercise - the more a response is practised the more the S-R bonds are strengthened + the more likely it is to be repeated

law of effect - positively reinforced responses are likely to be repeated