Learning, in psychology, is defined as relatively permanent changes in behavior, skills, knowledge, or attitudes that result from identifiable psychological or social experiences. Crucially, this change must be relatively permanent to be considered learning. Temporary changes don't count.
Key Elements of Learning in Psychology:
Here's a breakdown of the essential aspects of learning, according to the provided definition:
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Relatively Permanent Changes: This is the cornerstone of learning. It distinguishes learning from temporary modifications caused by things like fatigue or intoxication. The changes that constitute learning are enduring, not fleeting.
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Behavior, Skills, Knowledge, or Attitudes: Learning can manifest in various ways:
- Behavior: Changes in actions or reactions. For example, learning to ride a bicycle changes your behavior.
- Skills: Acquiring new abilities. Learning a new language or playing a musical instrument involves skill acquisition.
- Knowledge: Gaining new information and understanding. Learning historical facts in school expands your knowledge base.
- Attitudes: Modifying one's feelings or beliefs towards something. Experiences can shift your attitude about a particular topic.
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Identifiable Psychological or Social Experiences: Learning isn't random; it stems from specific experiences. These experiences can be:
- Psychological: Internal mental processes, such as problem-solving or reflection.
- Social: Interactions with others, such as observing role models or receiving feedback.
Examples of Learning:
- A student learns to solve algebraic equations through practice and instruction. This changes their skills and knowledge relatively permanently.
- An individual overcomes a fear of public speaking through therapy and repeated exposure. This alters their attitude and behavior.
- A child learns to share toys after observing their parents' behavior and receiving positive reinforcement. This changes their behavior.
Non-Examples of Learning:
- A person's coordination is temporarily impaired after drinking alcohol. This is not learning because the change is not permanent.
- Muscle fatigue after exercising causes a temporary decrease in performance. This is not learning due to the temporary nature of the change.
In short, learning in psychology signifies lasting modifications in behavior, skills, knowledge, or attitudes that are a direct result of specific experiences. The permanence of the change is a defining factor.
