Learning: Theories and Program
Design
~ Recognizes that behavior that is reinforced or
rewarded tends
WHAT IS LEARNING?
10 be repeated.
Learning is a relatively permanent change in
human capabilities that is not a result of growth
processes.
These capabilities are related to specific
learning outcomes.
> The models’ behavior or skill that is rewarded
is adopted by the
observer.
(TBC)
Processes of Social Learning Theories
Reinforcement Theory
Emphasizes that people are motivated to
perform or avoid certain behaviors because of
past outcomes that have resulted from those
behaviors.
« Positive reinforcement
« Negative Reinforcement
« Extinction
« Punishment


From a training perspective, it suggests
that for learners to acquire knowledge,
change behavior, of modify skills, the
trainer needs to identify what outcomes
the learner finds most positive (and
negative).
Trainers then need to link these
outcomes to learners acquiring
Knowledge, skills, or changing
behaviors.
Schedules of Reinforcement
-
 Ratio Schedules
Continuous reinforcement
Fixed-ratio schedule
Variable-ratio schedule
 Interval Schedules
Fixed-interval schedule
Variable-interval schedule
Social Learning Theory
> Emphasizes that people learn by observing
other persons (models) whom they believe are
credible and knowledgeable.
Goal Theories