Page 3: Complex Learning Mechanisms

This page explores advanced concepts in classical conditioning, including acquisition, extinction, and higher-order conditioning.

Vocabulary:

• Acquisition: The point where the NS becomes a CS
• Extinction: When the CS no longer triggers the CR
• Spontaneous Recovery: The unexpected return of an extinct CR
• Higher-Order Conditioning: Conditioning involving three or more stimuli

Highlight: Learning associations aren't permanently deleted during extinction but can resurface through spontaneous recovery.

Example: In higher-order conditioning, a previously conditioned stimulus can serve as an unconditioned stimulus for new learning, creating a chain of associated stimuli.

[Note: Continuing with pages 4-7 would require their content, which wasn't provided in the transcript.]

Reinforcement Schedules

The text explains various reinforcement schedules and their effects on behavior.

Highlight: Partial reinforcement leads to slower acquisition but greater resistance to extinction.

Definition: Fixed-ratio and variable-ratio schedules depend on behavior repetitions, while fixed-interval and variable-interval schedules depend on time passage.

Example: A fixed-ratio schedule might reward every fifth correct response, while a variable-interval schedule provides rewards at unpredictable time intervals.

Punishment and Discriminative Stimuli

This section covers punishment types and the role of discriminative stimuli in behavior modification.

Definition: A discriminative stimulus signals when specific behaviors will have particular consequences.

Example: A landlord's car serving as a signal for when drumming will result in punishment.

Highlight: Punishment can be positive (adding something unpleasant) or negative (removing something pleasant).