learning approach: Behaviourism

What is the behaviourist approach?

• observable behaviour

• behaviour is shaped by the environment

What is classical conditioning?

learning through association

Who is associated with classical conditioning?

Ian Pavlov

What are the two types of conditioning that are central in the behaviourist approach?

operant and classical

What was Pavlov’s experiment?’

He conditioned dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell by associating it with food.

What is the process of classical conditioning?

UCS—→ UCR

UCS + NS ————→ UCR

CS————→CR

What is the unconditioned stimulus using the example of Pavlov’s dogs?

food

What is the unconditioned response using the example of Pavlov’s dogs?

salivate

What is the neutral stimulus using the example of Pavlov’s dogs?

bell

What is the unconditioned response using the example of Pavlov’s dogs DURING THE EXPERIMENT?

salivate

What is the conditioned stimulus using the example of Pavlov’s dogs?

bell

What is the conditioned response using the example of Pavlov’s dogs?

salivate

What is operant conditioning?

learning through consequences

What scientist is associated with operant conditioning?

B.F Skinner

What is positive reinforcement?

receiving a reward for a certain type of behaviour 

What is punishment?

an unpleasant consequence

What is negative reinforcement?

avoidance behaviour. Doing something to avoid punishment

What experiment did Skinner carry out?

Skinner used the Skinner Box, placing animals like rats or pigeons inside.

• When they pressed a lever, they received a reward (food) – this showed positive reinforcement.

• In other setups, pressing the lever stopped a shock – showing negative reinforcement.

• He also used punishment to reduce unwanted behaviours.

The experiment demonstrated that behaviour is shaped by its consequences.

provide strengths for the behavioural approach

• scientific credibility - focuses on observable behaviour in a highly controlled lab setting

• use of behavioural techniques in everyday life to shape behaviour - rewards based on good behaviour

provide a weakness for the behavioural approach

• its laws are based on animal research - (skinners rats, pavlov dog)