7.1 - What is Learning? Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in 7.1 - What is Learning? Deck (5)
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1
Q

How is “Learning” defined?

A

The acquisition, from experience, of new knowledge, skills, or responses that results in a relatively permanent change in the state of the learner.

2
Q

What are the three key ideas emphasized by the definition of “Learning”?

A

Learning is based on EXPERIENCE

Learning PRODUCES CHANGES in the organism

These changes are RELATIVELY PERMANENT

3
Q

Define “Habituation”

A

A general process in which repeated or prolonged exposure to a stimulus results in a gradual REDUCTION in responding.

4
Q

Define “Sensitization”

A

A simple form of learning that occurs when presentation of a stimulus leads to an INCREASED RESPONSE to a later stimulus

5
Q

What is special about the Sea Slug “Aplysia”, which was studied by Eric Kandel?

A

Kandel’s research revealed that Aplysia exhibit both Habituation and Sensitization;

Habituation: When lightly touched, the sea slug initially withdraws its gill, but the response gradually weakens after repeated light touches

Sensitization: After receiving a strong shock, Aplysia showed an increased gill-withdrawal response to a light touch

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