Operant conditioning

• Operant conditioning

  Use of reinforcement to link correct responses to a stimulus
• Operant conditioning

  • It is based on trial-and-error learning
  • The coach might manipulate the environment when using it
  • It shapes behaviour by using reinforcement
• Operant conditioning works on the principle that reinforced actions are strengthened and that incorrect actions can be weakened
• Success acts as a satisfier to strengthen correct actions
• During trial-and-error learning, if the successful response is rewarded, then they are more likely to be repeated
• If unsuccessful responses are ignored or given an annoyer, such as criticism, then they may be avoided
• Reinforcements used in operant conditioning

  • Positive reinforcement
  • Negative reinforcement
  • Punishment
• Positive reinforcement

  A pleasant stimulus is given to increase the likelihood of a correct response occurring again in the future
• Negative reinforcement

  Promotes correct actions occurring by taking away an unpleasant stimulus when the performer does it right
• Punishment

  An unpleasant stimulus is given to prevent incorrect actions from happening again
• Operant conditioning process

  1. Whole or whole-part-whole practice to isolate key aspects of the task

  2. Mental practice to go over correct aspects of the task in the mind
• Satisfier

  An action that promotes a pleasant feeling so that responses are repeated
• Annoyer

  An action that creates unease to promote the avoidance of incorrect responses