Fundamentals of Learning

Fundamentals of Learning: A Behavioral Approach discusses the basic mechanismsof learning. It highlights how most behaviors are learned through minimal amounts ofcognitive processing and acquired through associations between stimuli, such as observedin classical and operant conditioning (associative learning) and repeated experiences with asingle stimulus (nonassociative learning).Together, in combination with innate or instinctual behaviors, these forms of learningaccount for the acquisition of an impressively wide range of behaviors and played a crucialrole in the evolution of species, as it permitted them to adapt to changing environments.The book begins by tracing the history of learning theory, acquainting students with thephilosophers and early researchers who contributed to learning theory. It then goes onto cover theoretical explanations of the basic learning mechanisms, including theories ofclassical and operant conditioning. The modular approach of the book enables students tolink the concepts they learn about in the text to their own behavior. The book concludeswith a discussion of the role of cognition in learning, covering behaviors that are consideredless automatized and mediated by cognitive processes, such as the formation of spatial mapsand the processes involved in decision-making and motivated behaviors.The book is written with the student in mind throughout, featuring real-life case studies,key terms, and learning objectives. It is also accompanied by additional resources to furthersupport student learning. It will be a must-read for all students of learning and behavior oranimal learning.