Module Outline |
Module 15: Operant Conditioning |
This module details the second major type of learning, operant conditioning. The module begins by defining operant conditioning, which is based on Thorndike’s Law of Effect. |
The various aspects of reinforcement and punishment are covered, including the types of reinforcement, reinforcement procedures, and the different schedules of reinforcement. |
The module closes with a discussion of new advances in the study of operant conditioning. How cognition and biology play a role in operant conditioning is explained. |
What Is Operant Conditioning? | |
Operant conditioning | |
Frequency | |
Consequence | |
The Law of Effect | |
Edward Thorndike | |
Law of Effect | |
B.F. Skinner | |
Skinner Box | |
Reinforcement | |
Punishment | |
Reinforcement | |
Positive reinforcement | |
Negative reinforcement | |
Immediate reinforcement | |
Delayed reinforcement | |
Primary reinforcement | |
Secondary reinforcement | |
Punishment | |
Punishment | |
Positive punishment | |
Negative punishment | |
Problems with punishment | |
Fear and anxiety | |
Avoidance behaviors | |
Aggression | |
Temporary suppression | |
Reinforcement Procedures | |
Shaping | |
Discrimination | |
Extinction | |
Schedules of Reinforcement | |
Continuous reinforcement | |
Partial reinforcement schedules | |
Intermittent | |
Interval schedules | |
Ratio schedules | |
Fixed interval schedule | |
Variable interval schedule | |
Fixed ratio schedule | |
Variable ratio schedule | |
New Understandings of Operant Conditioning | |
Latent learning | |
Cognitive map | |
Overjustification effect | |
Self-regulation | |
Biologically predisposed |