Classical conditioning
CONTIGUITY: Classical conditioning is most effective when the conditioned stimulus is is presented half a second before the unconditioned stimulus
Learning by association
Key terms:
Neutral stimulus (NS)
Conditioned stimulus (CS)
Unconditioned response (UCR)
Conditioned response (CR)
Unconditioned stimulus (UCS)
A signal (stimulus) that draws an unconditioned response without previous conditioning
The unlearned reaction to an unconditioned stimulus that occurs without previous conditioning. The normal response to the UCS.
A neutral stimulus that does not elicit any response.
The unconditioned stimulus is repeatedly paired with the neutral stimulus. The neutral stimulus then becomes the conditioned response.
A previously neutral stimulus that now causes a conditioned response.
Learned reaction to a conditioned stimulus. The UCR and CR are the same
Learning occurs between two stimuli- when they are repeatedly paired
As a result the neutral stimulus from the environment elicits a response
CONTINGENCY: Classical conditioning is most effective when the unconditioned stimulus and the conditioned stimulus happen after each other
Process
- Acquisition: the initial stage of learning something
- Pairing: the stimulus must be repeatedly paired
- Timing: the neutral stimulus must be presented at the right time