Psychology of Learning

Course Description

This course examines major theories of learning with relevance to instrumental and classical (Pavlovian) conditioning, cognitive learning processes, motivation, affect, and memory. The students will explore relevant research on traditional and contemporary issues in learning, with an emphasis is on human learning from both behavioral and cognitive perspectives.

Topics and Objectives

Understanding the Concept of Learning

• Define the concept of learning.
• Distinguish between learning and performance.
• Compare and contrast the conceptual approaches to the study of learning.
• Analyze forms of simple stimulus learning.

Classical Conditioning and Learning

• Explain the concept of classical conditioning.
• Analyze the role of awareness in conditioning.
• Evaluate the application of classical conditioning to the learning process.

Instrumental Conditioning and Learning

• Compare and contrast the concepts of positive and negative reinforcement as they relate to learning.
• Evaluate the application of instrumental conditioning to the learning process.
• Explain the role of reward and punishment in the learning process.

Verbal Learning

• Compare and contrast serial learning, paired associate learning, and free recall.
• Explore the concept of utilization of Mnemonics in recall of verbal stimuli
• Compare and contrast recognition memory and free recall.

Human Memory

• Explain the concepts of working memory, short term memory, and long term memory.
• Explain the role of encoding and retrieval in the memory process
• Evaluate variables associated with encoding information and ease of retrieval.

Individual Differences in Learning and Memory

• Analyze the relationship between genetics and learning.
• Analyze the implications of age, gender, and personality to learning.
• Evaluate learning styles in relation to theories of human learning and memory retrieval.