1. Practical Applications of Research-Based Learning Principles Dr. Ginger M. LeBlanc Bakersfield College

2. Psychology Basic Research Basic Research Application Application –Use information, techniques and skills derived from psychological science Areas: Areas: –Case Workers –Counselors –Teachers –Animal Trainers

3. Psychology of Learning Behaviorism Behaviorism –Watson, Thorndike, Skinner Emphasis Emphasis –Environment –Behavior –Scientific Method

4. Principles of Learning Learning is relatively permanent change in behavior due to experiences. Learning is relatively permanent change in behavior due to experiences. Derived from empirical research using nonhuman animals. Derived from empirical research using nonhuman animals. Operant Conditioning Operant Conditioning –Consequences have future effect on behavior

5. Reinforcement Increase probability of behavior Increase probability of behavior Reinforcer qualities Reinforcer qualities Factors influencing effectiveness: Factors influencing effectiveness: –Immediacy –Consistency –Contingency Autism Therapy Session

6. Extinction Decrease probability of behavior Decrease probability of behavior Removal of reward Removal of reward Factors influencing effectiveness Factors influencing effectiveness –Immediacy, consistency, contingency Side effects Side effects –Extinction burst –Low to zero levels of responding

7. Shaping Differential reinforcement of successive approximations Differential reinforcement of successive approximations –Reward behaviors that more closely resemble desired behavior –Task Analysis  Break behavior in small steps

8. Animal Application Animal Behavior Research Animal Behavior Research Husbandry Training Husbandry Training Husbandry Training Husbandry Training

9. Conclusion Valuable application of learning principles Selecting Stimulus as Reinforcer