Learning Principle in AP Psychology

Definition

Learning principles refer to the fundamental concepts and theories that explain how individuals acquire new knowledge, skills, behaviors, or attitudes through experiences. They provide a framework for understanding the process of learning.

Related terms

Classical Conditioning:

This term refers to a type of learning in which an individual learns to associate two stimuli and respond to one of them in a specific way. For example, after pairing the sound of a dentist's drill with an unpleasant experience (like pain), a child may start crying when hearing the sound alone.

Operant Conditioning:

In operant conditioning, individuals learn to associate their behavior with its consequences. Positive reinforcement strengthens desired behaviors by providing rewards or incentives while negative reinforcement reduces undesired behaviors by removing aversive stimuli.

Observational Learning:

Also known as social learning or modeling, observational learning occurs when individuals acquire new behaviors or skills by observing others and imitating their actions. It can be seen when children learn from watching their parents or peers engage in certain activities or exhibit specific behaviors.