The Theories And Processes Of Learning - 2163 Words

Introduction In this training manual we will cover; †¢ Background Information on the influential theories and processes of learning †¢ A step-by-step guide of how these theories can be used to allow your pet to learn a desired behavior †¢ The effectiveness of these training methods through their strengths and limitations Classical Conditioning Definition-The learning of desired behavior through repeated association between two events which are as such the stimuli This theory of learning was founded and created by Ivan Pavlov (1849-1936) a Russian scientist interested in studying how digestion works in animals. Through this study he had the†¦show more content†¦- This experiment that modified a reflex behavior (salivating at the sight of food) showed how learning can take place. Operant Conditioning Definition- The learning of behavior through association with a punishment and reward system. As such the likelihood of a specific behavior is increased or decreased through the association between negative reinforcement and positive reinforcement. (There is also positive punishment and negative punishment but they haven’t been studied and are harder to grasp for learning techniques so will not be discussed) This theory of learning had some of its origins in the previously stated classical conditioning theories as well as some roots in American animal psychology. Much of this work was tested on animals and then generalized to humans as testing this was highly unethical