Question

In cognitive learning theory, it is ssumed that people develop a(n) ______ about receiving a reinforcer when they behave a certain way.

Short answer

The fill in the blank is 'expectation'.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Theory

Start by reviewing cognitive learning theory, which postulates that psychological factors are important for understanding how we learn and behave. Essentially, it highlights how we process information and how this affects our behavior.

Identify the Concept

Recognize that the question highlights the view that behavior is driven by expectations of reinforcement. In cognitive learning theory, this perspective implies that we behave in specific ways when we anticipate or expect reinforcement.

Fill in the Blank

Based on this understanding, the best fit in this context is 'expectation'. So, the sentence should read... 'In cognitive learning theory, it is assumed that people develop an expectation about receiving a reinforcer when they behave a certain way.'

Key concepts

Psychological Factors in Learning

Understanding how we learn involves delving into the psychological factors that influence our education. Learning isn't just about memorizing facts; it's a complex interplay of cognitive abilities, emotional states, and social environments.

Our motivations, beliefs, and attitudes powerfully impact our capacity to learn. For instance, a student who believes that their efforts will yield success is more likely to persevere through challenging material than one who doubts their capabilities. This belief system aligns with the concept of self-efficacy, which is a person's belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations.

• Self-Motivation: A key driver that nudges learners to attain their goals.
• Anxiety: Can hinder the ability to absorb and retain information.
• Attention: The gateway to learning; without it, information uptake is significantly reduced.
• Prior Knowledge: Influences new learning, as connections are made with what is already known.

Therefore, educators should foster a positive learning environment that addresses these psychological factors to enhance the learning process.

Information Processing

Cognitive learning theory draws parallels between the human mind and a computer when it comes to processing information. This approach suggests that learning involves a series of steps: encoding, storing, and retrieving information.

It's vital to understand that our sensory input – what we see, hear, taste, touch, and smell – is first processed by our working memory. Consider it as a temporary holding pen where we manipulate information before either discarding it or transferring it to long-term memory. However, our working memory has limited capacity.

• Chunking: A strategy to group information into larger, more manageable units to enhance memorization.
• Rehearsal: Repeating information to keep it active in working memory and increase chances of moving it to long-term memory.
• Mnemonics: Creating associations to simplify the recall of complex information.

Adopting these strategies can lead to more effective learning outcomes because they attend to how we process and organize information.

Behavior and Reinforcement

Within cognitive learning theory, behavior and reinforcement are closely linked. Skinner's operant conditioning illustrates how the consequences of our actions influence future behaviors; behaviors followed by positive outcomes tend to increase, while those followed by negative outcomes tend to decrease.

This is why reinforcement is such a pivotal concept. There are two types of reinforcements:

• Positive Reinforcement: Adding a rewarding stimulus following a behavior, making it more likely the behavior will happen again.
• Negative Reinforcement: Taking away an aversive stimulus after a behavior to increase the likelihood of that behavior being repeated.

Importantly, cognitive theorists argue that the effect of reinforcement is not just behavioral but also psychological. The anticipation of reinforcement affects our expectations and can drive us to engage in specific behaviors geared towards achieving the desired outcome.

Expectation

Expectation is a core element within cognitive learning theory, acting as a bridge between psychological factors and learning outcomes. When individuals anticipate a specific result from their actions, this expectation can shape their behavioral decisions.

This concept taps into the human ability to predict the consequences of our actions based on past experiences. Expectancies affect not only what we choose to do but also how we perceive and react to outcomes.

For example, if a student expects that studying hard will lead to better grades, this expectation will likely increase their study efforts. Likewise, teachers can shape students' expectations by setting clear goals and providing consistent feedback, thereby guiding successful learning behaviors.

In summary, expectations are informed by reinforcements and can significantly influence learning by directing our behaviors towards goals we believe are achievable and rewarding.