Formal Blog 8

Classical conditioning is a type of learning in which one learns to link two or more stimuli and anticipate events. An example of classical conditioning is Pavlov's experiments. Pavlov presented a neutral stimulus just before an unconditioned stimulus. The neutral stimulus then became a conditioned stimulus, producing a conditioned response. Operant conditioning is a type of learning in which behavior is strengthened if followed by a reinforcer or diminished if followed by a punisher. An a example of this is Skinner's experiments. Skinner designed a box called Skinner's box. Inside the box, the rat pressed a bar for a food reward. Outside, a measuring device records the animal's accumulated responses. Classical conditioning deals with stimuli, but operant conditioning deals with organisms and their own actions/ consequences. Both of these relate to my life. Classical conditioning relates to my life because if I hear something in the kitchen I usually assume that it is my mom cooking so I get hungry. Operant conditioning relates to me because the more I complain the quicker my parents will make decisions.

Positive reinforcement is increasing behaviors by presenting positive stimuli, such as food. A positive reinforcer is any stimulus that, when presented after a response, strengthens the response. Negative reinforcement is increasing behaviors by stopping or reducing negative stimuli, such as shock. A negative reinforcer is any stimulus that, when removed after a response, strengthens the response. Punishment is an event that decreases behavior that it follows. An example of positive reinforcement is that when I was younger I had some classes that if I would do good in class and participate I would receive candy or some sort of reward. An example of negative reinforcement would be when I hit the snooze button on my alarm. An example of punishment is when I would receive a spanking for being disobedient or naughty.

It was interesting learning about both classical and operant conditioning. After reading about classical conditioning I learned about Ivan Pavlov and his experiment with dogs. Before using the bell and the food at the same time, the dogs did not produce saliva unless food was presented. Once Pavlov started presenting food at the same time he rang the bell, the dog would produce saliva every time it heard the bell. After reading about operant conditioning I learned that it was about the organism being in control of their own actions and consequences. It was interesting learning about the rats that have been trained to find land mines. Once the rat finds the land mine they receive a bite of banana. It's neat how we are examples of both conditionings. An example of classical conditioning, if we hear a school bell ring we know that class is over and we can get up and leave. An example of operant conditioning is that if you want your parents to give your an answer to you question, faster, you can whine alot. Usually your parents won't want to listen to you whine because they don't want to deal with it and they will provide a quick and short answer.