5.1 What Is Learning?
Notes
Learning is a relatively lasting change in behavior or knowledge due to experience. Three main types are studied: classical conditioning, operant conditioning and observational learning.
- Learning is different from instinct (inborn behavior) and from changes caused by growth or temporary states like tiredness.
- Habituation is a simple form of learning: responding less to a repeated, harmless stimulus.
- Associative learning means linking two events together.
Practice
Which of the following is an example of learning?
Learning is a lasting change in behavior from experience. Reflexes and growth are not learned.
A family moves near train tracks. After a few weeks they stop noticing the train noise. This is:
Habituation is a decrease in response to a repeated harmless stimulus.
Associative learning means:
Conditioning is learning an association.
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