Psychology: Concept and Types of learning

 

(ITP-12) Concept and Types of learning

Introduction:

Psychology examines how individuals learn new knowledge, skills, and behaviors through experiences and interactions with their surroundings. In following blog we will learn the Concept and Types of learning. Observational learning is one of the types of learning, where individuals learn by observing others' behaviors. The Bobo doll experiment conducted by Albert Bandura showcased the power of observational learning in children. Four processes- attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation- impact observational learning. Learning through imitation, modeling, and trial and error methods are fundamental in learning. Trial and error theory of learning, proposed by Edward Thorndike, involves the gradual process of trial and error through repeated practice and experience. The process of cognitive learning involves problem-solving using cognitive processes such as comprehension, memory, and application. These fundamental aspects are essential in cognitive learning.

Definition: Learning is relatively permanent change in behaviour due to practice and experience

Learning refers to the process by which individuals acquire new knowledge, skills, or behaviors through experiences, observations, or interactions with their environment. In psychology, learning is studied as a complex process that involves cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes.

Learning by Observation: Understanding How We Learn by Watching Others

Observational Learning in Childhood:

Children learn by observing their surroundings and the behaviors of others around them. They can learn positive behaviors such as sharing and politeness, as well as negative behaviors such as aggression and violence.

Observational Learning and the Bobo doll Experiment:

In 1961, psychologist Albert Bandura conducted the famous Bobo doll experiment to demonstrate the power of observational learning. Children who observed an adult model behaving aggressively towards a Bobo doll were more likely to imitate the behavior than those who didn't observe it.

Four Processes that Impact Observational Learning:

1. Attention: Learners must pay attention to the behavior being modeled.
2. Retention: Learners must remember the behavior they observed.
3. Reproduction: Learners must have the physical and mental ability to reproduce the behavior.
4. Motivation: Learners must have the desire or motivation to reproduce the behavior.

Imitation:

Imitation is the act of replicating a behavior observed in another person. It is a basic form of learning that allows individuals to acquire new skills and knowledge.

What is a Model?

• A model is the person or object whose behavior is being observed and imitated.
• The model can be anyone, such as a parent, teacher, friend, or celebrity.

Modeling:

Modeling is the process of demonstrating or showing a behavior for someone else to observe and learn from. It is an effective way of teaching new behaviors and skills.

Difference between Imitation and Modeling:

• Imitation is the act of copying a behavior observed in another person.
• Modeling is the process of demonstrating a behavior for someone else to observe and learn from.

Learning by Trial and Error: Understanding the Process of Learning Through Experimentation

Introduction:

Trial and error is a fundamental process of learning through experimentation. It involves trying various methods or approaches until a desired outcome is achieved.

Definition:

• Learning by trial and error is the process of learning from one's mistakes and successes.

Thorndike's Trial and Error Theory:

Edward Thorndike was a psychologist who proposed the trial and error theory of learning. According to this theory, learning is a gradual process of trial and error that occurs through repeated practice and experience.

The Laws of Learning:

• Thorndike identified three laws of learning that explain how trial and error leads to the acquisition of new behaviors and skills.

1. Law of Effect:

The Law of Effect states that behaviors that lead to positive consequences are more likely to be repeated in the future, while behaviors that lead to negative consequences are less likely to be repeated. Positive consequences are referred to as "satisfiers," while negative consequences are referred to as "annoyers." For example, if a student receives praise and a good grade for studying hard, they are more likely to continue studying in the future.

2. Law of Exercise:

The Law of Exercise states that the more a behavior is practiced, the stronger it becomes. This law emphasizes the importance of repetition and practice in the learning process. For example, the more a musician practices their instrument, the better they become.

3. Law of Readiness:

The Law of Readiness states that individuals are more likely to learn when they are ready and motivated to do so. This law emphasizes the importance of being mentally and physically prepared to learn. For example, a student who is well-rested and motivated is more likely to perform well on an exam.

 

Learning by Cognition: Understanding How We Learn through Mental Processes

Learning by Cognition is a process of acquiring new knowledge or skills by identifying, analyzing, and solving problems. In this individual solve the problem by its own thinking processes.

Learning by Insight and the Kohler Experiment:

Wolfgang Köhler, a Gestalt psychologist, conducted an experiment with a chimpanzee named Sultan. Sultan was given two short sticks to retrieve a banana placed outside his cage. After trying unsuccessfully, Sultan accidentally joined the two sticks and was able to retrieve the banana. In subsequent attempts, Sultan solved the problem immediately by joining the two sticks. This experiment demonstrated the use of insight learning

Problem Solving:

Problem solving is a key component of learning by cognition and involves the use of cognitive processes to identify and solve problems.

Components of Cognitive Learning:

There are several fundamental aspects of cognitive learning that are important to understand.

Comprehension: Comprehension involves understanding the meaning and significance of new information or concepts.

Memory: Memory involves the ability to store and retrieve information over time. This type of learning is critical for retaining new information and using it in problem-solving.

Application: Application involves the ability to use new knowledge or skills in practical situations. This type of learning requires the ability to transfer knowledge from one situation to another and apply it in new and different ways.

References:

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