what do psychologists call a relatively permanent change in behavior or knowledge that results from experience?
What do psychologists call a relatively permanent change in behavior or knowledge that results from experience?
Answer:
Psychologists refer to a relatively permanent change in behavior or knowledge resulting from experience as learning. This concept is fundamental in various fields within psychology, including developmental psychology, educational psychology, cognitive psychology, and behavioral psychology. Here is a detailed look at the concept:
1. Definition of Learning
- Learning is often defined as a process that leads to a relatively permanent change in behavior or understanding due to experience. It encompasses acquiring new information, skills, values, or behaviors and can involve cognitive, emotional, and environmental influences.
2. Types of Learning
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Classical Conditioning: This form of learning was first described by Ivan Pavlov. It involves learning through association. For example, if a neutral stimulus (like a bell) is consistently paired with an unconditioned stimulus (like food), it will eventually elicit a conditioned response (like salivation).
\text{Unconditioned Stimulus (Food) + Neutral Stimulus (Bell) = Conditioned Response (Salivation)} -
Operant Conditioning: B.F. Skinner expanded on this type of learning, which involves learning through consequences. Behaviors followed by positive reinforcement tend to be repeated, while those followed by punishment are less likely to be repeated.
\text{Behavior + Positive Reinforcement = Increased Behavior Frequency} -
Observational Learning: Albert Bandura proposed that learning often occurs through observing others, which he termed “social learning theory.” This type of learning can involve imitation, modeling, and the acquisition of behaviors, attitudes, or emotional reactions from others.
3. Characteristics of Learning
- Relativity of Permanence: Although learning results in a change that is relatively permanent, it is essential to note that behaviors can be modified, extinguished, or replaced over time due to new experiences or insights.
- Experience-Driven: Unlike changes due to biological growth or development, learning is explicitly driven by experiences, interactions, and environmental factors.
4. Learning Models and Theories
- Constructivist Theory: This approach, associated with Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky, suggests that individuals actively construct their understanding and knowledge of the world through experiences and reflecting on those experiences.
- Cognitive Learning Theory: This theory focuses on the role of mental processes in how people process and remember information. It includes concepts like schemas, information processing, and cognitive mapping.
Final Answer:
Learning is what psychologists call a relatively permanent change in behavior or knowledge that results from experience. This concept is integral to understanding how individuals adapt, grow, and develop over time through various forms of conditioning, observation, and cognitive processes.