Learning and Cognition

 Instrumental Conditioning.  Learning theorists and psychologists seek to understand behaviour, which promotes the continuation of behaviour and what extinguishes it. Punishment is used as one tool in instrumental conditioning as modifying or exterminating a behaviour. Describe an instance in life that might call for the use of punishment. After reading the APA code of conduct assigned in the week’s required reading, discuss the ethical limitations (including the concepts of “Principle A: Beneficence and Nonmaleficence” – (http://www.apa.org/ethics/code2002.html#principle_a) towards using the use of this method of learning. Lastly, apply these concepts and ethics to an experience you may have had.  2. Every learning experience involves motivation, which the learner may be aware of prior to the learning experience or realizes only after reflection. Contrast and compare the differences between extrinsic (incentive) and intrinsic motivation. How does motivation play a role in the different theories of learning (select two theories)? 3. Learning Styles  How we differ in the ways that we learn has been of interest to psychologists and educators alike for the last several decades. Distinguish between the three most supported learning style typologies: visualizer-verbalizer dimension, Kolb’s theory and Sternberg’s theory by comparing and contrasting their strengths and weaknesses. How does learning style influence educational intervention and/or approach? Lastly, apply these concepts to a learning experience you may have had.