BEHAVIORAL LEARNING THEORIES

Behavioral learning theories focuses on interactions with the outer world. It is the idea that learning occurs when change in behavior is observed. According to behaviorism, learning is a process through which experience causes permanent change in behavior and it is not always intentional. Two main theorists highlighted in this assignment are;

 B.F. Skinner – Operant conditioning

 Ivan Pavlov – Classical conditioning 

OPERANT CONDITIONING

The main idea of operant conditioning is that voluntary behavior is strengthened or weakened by consequences or antecedents. Consequences are events that follow certain actions, while antecedents are events that precede actions. According to Skinner, desired behaviors can be reinforced or changed by giving rewards and or/punishments. Skinner also explains how children are conditioned to behave in a certain way. It is based on the thinking that a behavior will be chosen based upon the perceived consequences (Shameem, 2013). 

CLASSICAL CONDITIONING

This is one of the best and well-known aspect of behavioral learning theories. The famous Russian psychologist, Ivan Pavlov was the founder of this theory. According to him this is a process of learning which occurs through association of an environmental stimulus and a naturally occurring stimulus (http://psychology.about.com). According to classical conditioning theory humans and other animals can be trained to react involuntarily to stimuli.

References;

1.      Shameem.M, (2013), Cognitive and Behavioral Learning Theories; Unpublished materials, MNU,    Maldives.

2.    http://psychology.about.com, 

3.    Saudulla.I, (2013), Assignment write up, MNU, Maldives