which of the following experiments involves the use of operant conditioning?
Which of the following experiments involves the use of operant conditioning?
Answer: Operant conditioning is a type of learning where behavior is controlled by consequences. Key concepts in operant conditioning include reinforcement (which increases behavior) and punishment (which decreases behavior).
1. B.F. Skinner’s Experiment with Rats:
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Explanation: One of the most well-known examples of operant conditioning is B.F. Skinner’s experiment with rats. Skinner designed a “Skinner box,” where a rat was placed inside. The box contained a lever that, when pressed, would release a food pellet.
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Positive Reinforcement: When the rat pressed the lever and received a food pellet, the behavior (lever pressing) was positively reinforced, increasing the likelihood of the rat pressing the lever again in the future.
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Negative Reinforcement: In other variations of his experiments, Skinner demonstrated negative reinforcement by applying an unpleasant stimulus (like a mild electric shock) which could be stopped by the rat pressing the lever.
\text{Behavior (lever pressing)} \xrightarrow{\text{positive reinforcement}} \text{Increases (more lever pressing)}\text{Behavior (lever pressing)} \xrightarrow{\text{negative reinforcement}} \text{Increases (more lever pressing to avoid shock)}
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2. Training a Dog to Sit:
- Explanation: This involves giving a dog a treat every time it sits on command. This is another example of operant conditioning, as the dog’s behavior (sitting) is followed by a positive consequence (receiving a treat).
3. Classroom Behavior Management:
- Explanation: Teachers often use operant conditioning to manage classroom behavior. For example, giving students gold stars (positive reinforcement) for good behavior or taking away privileges (negative punishment) for bad behavior.
Given these examples, the most classic experiment known to involve operant conditioning is B.F. Skinner’s work with his Skinner box. Thus, if you are looking for a specific experiment that exemplifies operant conditioning, you can refer to:
Final Answer:
B.F. Skinner’s experiment with rats in the Skinner box involves the use of operant conditioning.