Learning
Meaning of Learning
Learning is a relatively permanent change in behaviour or behavioural potential resulting from experience or practice. Temporary changes caused solely by fatigue or illness are not normally considered learning.
Classical Conditioning
In classical conditioning, an initially neutral stimulus can acquire the capacity to elicit a response after being repeatedly associated with a stimulus that naturally produces that response. Pavlov’s experiments with dogs are a classic example.
Operant Conditioning
Operant conditioning focuses on how consequences influence behaviour. Reinforcement increases the likelihood of a behaviour, while punishment is intended to reduce it. Positive and negative refer to adding or removing a stimulus, not automatically to good or bad.
Observational Learning
Bandura showed that people can learn by observing models. Attention, retention, reproduction and motivation influence observational learning.
Explained MCQs
- What does “negative reinforcement” mean?
Answer: Removing an unpleasant stimulus to increase a behaviour.
Explanation: “Negative” means removal and “reinforcement” means increasing behaviour. It is not the same as punishment. - Why is observational learning important?
Answer: People can acquire behaviour by watching others without directly experiencing every consequence themselves.
Explanation: Models, attention and perceived consequences can influence what a learner adopts.
Case Study
A student begins completing homework regularly after the teacher praises completed work. Identify the learning process and explain why the consequence affects future behaviour.