Practical Applications of Research-Based Learning Principles

Dr. Ginger M. LeBlanc Bakersfield College

Psychology    Basic Research Application – Use information, techniques and skills derived from psychological science Areas: – Case Workers – Counselors – Teachers – Animal Trainers

Psychology of Learning  Behaviorism – Watson, Thorndike, Skinner  Emphasis – Environment – Behavior – Scientific Method

Principles of Learning  Learning is relatively permanent change in behavior due to experiences.

 Derived from empirical research using nonhuman animals.

 Operant Conditioning – Consequences have future effect on behavior

Reinforcement  Increase probability of behavior  Reinforcer qualities  Factors influencing effectiveness: – Immediacy – Consistency – Contingency Autism Therapy Session

Extinction     Decrease probability of behavior Removal of reward Factors influencing effectiveness – Immediacy, consistency, contingency Side effects – Extinction burst – Low to zero levels of responding 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 Before EXT During EXT burst

Time

decrement in responding

Shaping  Differential reinforcement of successive approximations – Reward behaviors that more closely resemble desired behavior – Task Analysis  Break behavior in small steps

Animal Application  Animal Behavior Research  Husbandry Training

Conclusion Valuable application of learning principles Selecting Stimulus as Reinforcer