Behavioural Studies Coursework: Groups, Attitudes and Learning

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In conclusion, attitudes in a society may be changed by using campaigns that forcefully put their message across to the public.

514 words

- Outline the contribution made to learning theory via classical and operant conditioning.

Conditioning theories have significantly contributed to the understanding of learning theory. Classical conditioning and operant conditioning are among the ideas that have furthered the familiarity of how we learn. Pavlov and Skinner made use of experiments, where coincidental creation of by-products, achieved a perception of learning theory.

Russian physiologist, Ivan Pavlov, developed the idea of classical conditioning by initially performing an experiment studying digestion. He originally intended to measure the amount time it took for a dog to salivate when meat power had been placed in its mouth. Yet, he succeeded to discover a more valuable finding. It soon became clear that the dogs began to salivate as soon as they became aware of the feeder entering the room. Therefore, it was clear to Pavlov that the dogs were becoming familiar with the scenario, and had learnt to expect the food when the feeder was seen. This proves that the mind can learn through experience, using a stimulus-response format. In this case, the food is a natural stimulus and the salivation is the response. Evidently, the dogs would not initially react in this manner, however, their behaviour is then influenced by awareness of the situation and they have, subconsciously, trained themselves to anticipate the food.

Pavlov then introduced a bell to sound slightly before the feeder would enter. To begin with, the dogs appeared oblivious to the noise as it meant nothing to them. However, as with the realisation that the feeder was bringing food, they made a link between the bell and the entrance of the feeder. Thus, subconsciously linking it to food, the dogs began to salivate as soon as they heard the bell. This reinforces that we learn through experience, creating associations in our minds from reactions we have encountered in the past.

The American psychologist, Burrhus Skinner, revealed that some behaviours are learnt through an experiment he held, which lead to his understanding of what he called, the operant conditioning. A hungry rat was placed in a cage with no food. Inside the cage there was a lever that when pressed, would release a food pellet to keep that from going hungry. Originally, the rat had no knowledge of the purpose of the lever, however, when it was eventually pressed and the rat received the food, this behaviour was planted in the rats mind. The rat had learnt how to get its food. This conveys that some responses are learned and that, in some cases, would never occur without trial and error. This operant conditioning describes the behaviour of acting to receive rewards and avoid punishment or disappointment. Over time, habits and response to occurrences are learned. Therefore, the operant conditioning has contributed the idea of learning theory as it provides evidence of learnt behaviours.

In conclusion, there can be no doubt that classical and operant conditioning contributes to learning theory. Classical conditioning suggests that our minds learn to link certain factors to others and respond accordingly. Whereas, operant conditioning conveys that through experience we act on what will be most beneficial. Our behaviour will aim to achieve reward rather than punishment.

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