Louisiana State University Shreveport 12

Learning

• Definition of Learning: Collecting information and changing memory.

• Two Main Definitions:

  • Collecting Information: Acquiring new knowledge.

  • Modeling Memory: Changing or adapting existing memories.

Simple Forms of Learning

• Basic Form: Reflex (Innate responses).

• Classical Conditioning: Learning to react based on stimuli.

  • Example: Loud noises causing fear (Unconditioned response).

  • Components of Classical Conditioning:

    • Unconditioned Stimulus (UCS): A stimulus that naturally triggers a response (e.g., loud noise).

    • Unconditioned Response (UCR): Automatic response to UCS (e.g., fear).

    • Conditioned Stimulus (CS): Initially neutral stimulus that becomes associated with UCS.

    • Conditioned Response (CR): Learned response to CS.

  • Example of Classical Conditioning:

    • Loud noise (UCS) + Light (CS) leads to fear (CR).

Concepts of Plasticity in Learning

• Plasticity: The ability to change due to experience.

  • Habituation: Becoming accustomed to a stimulus and ignoring it.

  • Sensitization: Increased reaction to a stimulus after exposure; heightened awareness.

Types of Conditioning

• Operant Conditioning: Learning through consequences.

  • Law of Effect: Behaviors followed by favorable outcomes are likely to be repeated.

• Reinforcement: Encourages behavior.

  • Positive Reinforcement: Adding a rewarding stimulus.

  • Negative Reinforcement: Removing an aversive stimulus (also called avoidance).

  • Punishment: Discourages behavior.

    • Positive Punishment: Adding an unpleasant stimulus.

    • Negative Punishment: Removing a pleasant stimulus.

Types of Reinforcement Schedules

• Fixed Ratio Schedule: Based on number of behaviors.

• Fixed Interval Schedule: Based on a set time interval.

• Variable Ratio Schedule: Based on varying number of behaviors (e.g., gambling).

• Variable Interval Schedule: Based on varying time intervals (e.g., checking emails).

• Effectiveness:

  • Fixed schedules are more predictable and harder to break.

  • Variable schedules lead to persistent behavior.

Memory Processes

• Stages of Memory:

  1. Encoding: Initial processing of information.

  2. Consolidation: Transferring short-term memories to long-term.

  3. Storage and Retrieval: Maintaining and accessing memories.

• Types of Memory:

  • Sensory Memory: Brief, immediate retention of sensory information.

  • Short-Term Memory: Retains information for about 15-30 seconds (capacity: 5-9 items).

  • Long-Term Memory: Potentially unlimited duration; capacity as long as alive.

Types of Long-Term Memory

• Declarative vs. Non-Declarative:

  • Declarative Memory: Conscious recollection of facts and events.

    • Episodic Memory: Personal experiences.

    • Semantic Memory: General knowledge.

  • Non-Declarative Memory: Unconscious, implicit skills and habits (e.g., riding a bike).

Issues with Memory

• Amnesia Types:

  • Retrograde Amnesia: Loss of past memories.

  • Anterograde Amnesia: Inability to form new memories.

  • Transient Global Amnesia: Temporary disruption of memory.

  • Korsakoff Syndrome: Often related to alcoholism; memory loss, confusion, and behavioral changes.

Important Theories and Concepts

• Freud's Repressed Memory: Concept of actively blocking traumatic memories.

• Factors Affecting Memory:

  • Alcohol and drugs disrupt memory consolidation.

  • Neural Basis for Memory:

    • Hippocampus: Crucial for forming new long-term memories.

    • Amygdala: Involved in emotional memories.

    • Cerebellum: Plays a role in procedural memory.