Learning from Experience - Chapter 7

These flashcards cover the key concepts and definitions related to learning, including habituation, sensitization, classical conditioning, operant conditioning, reinforcement, punishment, and observational learning.

What is learning?

Learning is the process by which experiences change our brain and behavior, allowing us to acquire new information.

What is habituation?

Habituation is the eventual decline or discontinuation of a response to a repeated stimulus.

What is sensitization?

Sensitization is an exaggerated response after exposure to one or more stimuli and does not require repeated exposure.

What is classical conditioning?

Classical conditioning (Pavlovian conditioning) is learning an association between two stimuli where the resulting behavior is involuntary.

What are the components of classical conditioning?

The components include Unconditioned Stimulus (US), Unconditioned Response (UR), Conditioned Stimulus (CS), and Conditioned Response (CR).

Explain the law of effect.

The law of effect states that if a response in a particular situation is followed by a satisfying consequence, it will be strengthened; if followed by an unsatisfying consequence, it will be weakened.

What is operant conditioning?

Operant conditioning is a learning method where an association is made between a behavior and its consequence (reward/punishment).

What is reinforcement?

Reinforcement is a consequence that strengthens responding, and it can be positive or negative.

What is punishment in the context of operant conditioning?

Punishment refers to consequences that decrease the likelihood of responding in a similar way again.

What is observational learning?

Observational learning is learning that occurs by observing the experiences of others, which has significant adaptive value.