Learning theories

• Operant conditioning is learning by association and connection. Behaviour is shaped through reinforcement and trial and error is heavily featured.
• If the behaviour is desired, positive reinforcement is given strengthening the SR bond. If the skill is incorrect, negative reinforcement/punishment is given weakening SR bond.
• 3 types of reinforcement used in operant conditioning are positive, negative and punishment all of which effect the SR bonds and create desired behaviour.
• Thorndike's laws state the response should be practiced and rehearsed, the performer must be physically and mentally ready and reinforcement is key.
• The cognitive theory is a gestaltist approach involving whole learning (considering the complete skill), problem solving and drawing upon previous experiences to solve new problems.
• The cognitive theory states intervening variables are taken into account by the learner, they take place between the stimulus and response.
• An example of the cognitive learning theory is a swimmer practicing a breaststroke as a whole.
• Advantages of the cognitive theory are the performer develops a better understanding , helps the performer with problem solving and learning a skill as a whole helps develop kiaesthetic awareness.
• Disadvantages of the cognitive theory are performers might have no past experience to draw on, might lose motivation and it would be unsafe and to complex for cognitive stage learners.
• The social learning theory states are behaviour is formed by copying others. The theory is based of the bobo doll experiment.
• The social learning theory says copying is more likely to occur if a significant other is observed or reinforcement takes place
• Stages of the social learning theory are demo, attention, retention, motor reproduction, motivation and performance.
• Demonstrations must highlight key points, be repeated to build schemas, technically accurate and be given by a significant role model/coach with many similar attributes.
• Attention involves the leaner focusing on the demo and important coaching points being cued. Retention involves mental images being created by the learner due to repeated demos building schemas.
• For motor reproduction the learner must be capable of reproducing the demo. Motivation consists of the learner having the desire to succeed. Performance is what is produced aiming to match the demo.
• Stages of learning states cognitive learners are beginners who may not be able to successfully execute the skill. Skills require conscious thought and trial and error is a feature with many mistakes being made.