Behaviourism by Group 3

BEHAVIOURISM

Behaviourism is based on the assumption that learning occurs through interactions with the environment. Two other assumptions of this theory are that the environment shapes behaviour and that taking internal mental states such as thoughts, feelings, and emotions into consideration is useless in explaining behaviour.

WHAT IS OPERANT CONDITIONING?

Operant conditioning (sometimes referred to as instrumental conditioning) is a method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behaviour. Through operant conditioning, an association is made between behaviour and a consequence for that behaviour. For example, when a lab rat presses a blue button, he receives a food pellet as a reward, but when he presses the red button he receives a mild electric shock.

Key terms: rewards, punishment, controlled behaviour

CLASSICAL CONDITIONING

In contrast, classical conditioning causes a stimulus to signal a positive or negative consequence; the resulting behaviour does not produce the consequence. Remember the experiment Pavlov did on a dog?  Ringing of the bell (stimulus) does not teach the dog how to react, however, it was the dog itself which later understand the stimulus given. The dog began to understand that the bell indicates food and he automatically salivate when the food is given.

Key terms: automatic, involuntary behaviour

CLASSICAL CONDITIONING	OPERANT CONDITIONING
First described by Ivan Pavlov, a Russian physiologist	First described by B. F. Skinner, an American psychologist
Involves placing a neutral signal before a reflex	Involves applying reinforcement or punishment after a behaviour
Focuses on involuntary, automatic behaviours	Focuses on strengthening or weakening voluntary behaviours
It is a learned response	Responses are given through reinforcement.
No punishment or reward. Relies more on association between stimuli and responses	Learning process takes place with such enticement and punishment.
Passive learner participation	Active learner participation