PSY 100 - Learning (Classical & Operant Conditioning & Social Learning)

High School/Adult Education curriculum/presentation slides

Includes an overview of how behaviorism and cognitive psychology contribute to the biopsychosocial approach psychologists use to understand how humans learn. Through a series of experiments (Pavlov's dog and the bell, Watson's Little Albert and the white rat, and Skinner's operant chamber), students learn about classical and operant conditioning. Bandura's (Bobo doll experiment) and his social learning theory teaches us that humans also learn by observing others. Consequences significantly impact human behavior, so it is essential to know about reinforcement and punishment, including the types and schedules that are most effective in shaping or eliminating a behavior.

Includes "slides" for class presentation, reflection-like questions for students (in red), definitions with relatable examples, helpful graphics, connections to related psychological concepts, and useful (or fun) video links for more information about the topic. Evidence-based research outcomes, factual information, strategies, and ideas that can help students become critical thinkers, lifelong learners, and well-informed humans.