Spence’s Theory of Discrimination and Generalization in an animated graph

Spence’s Theory of Discrimination Learning 4 Excitatory Strength is increased when a response to a specific stimulus is reinforced 4 Inhibitory Strength is increased when a response to a specific stimulus is not reinforced 4 Excitatory and Inhibitory Strength generalize to surrounding stimuli 4 The tendency to respond to any stimulus is based upon its Net Excitatory Strength

The next slide animates Spence’s Theory. You should read the account of his theory in the textbook before viewing the next slide. Sit back and enjoy an elegant explanation of an important issue in the scientific study of learning. (Turn on your speakers to maximize your enjoyment)

Spence’s Theory of Discrimination and Generalization S+ S- 5+0=55+0=5 12+0=12 27+(-2)=25 45+(-5)= (-12)=48 70+(-33)=37 52+(-45)=7 40+(-36)=4 65+(-37)=28 32+(-25)=7 15+(-15)=0 5+(-8)=-3 3+(-2)=1 Peak Shift

Summary of the animal’s behavior as explained by Spence’s Net Excitatory Strength S+ S- Peak Shift Note that the peak of the resultant gradient is shifted away from S