Classical Conditioning
Activities in Module 6 for November 17th
INSTRUCT: Classical Conditioning
Every time we begin to talk about classical conditioning, and especially when we discuss Pavlov's experiments with dogs, bells, food, and salivation, I laugh about Elvis because he is a perfect illustration of the theories demonstrated by Pavlov and others that followed.
Pavlov repeatedly presented a neutral stimulus (such as a tone) just before an unconditioned stimulus (UCS, food) that triggered an unconditioned response (UCR, salivation). After several repetitions, the tone alone (now the conditioned stimulus, CS) triggered a conditioned response (CR, salivation).
Elvis is a big boy - he weighed 150 lbs at his last physical! Because we knew he would get so big, we took him to obedience school as a pup. The trainer encouraged us to find treats for Elvis to reward desired behaviors - and they worked! However, we ended up with a frequent conditioned response. If Elvis sits, he slobbers (waiting for that treat). Same thing with lying down, heeling... Another fun (?) event that became a conditioned stimulus (CS) is opening the freezer (Elvis likes ice)!
We've "learned" to deal with Elvis' responses - I keep a towel by the back door and we have a ritual drool wiping whenever he comes in - who do you think is conditioned now?
CELEBRATE!
Sophie, Sydney P, Sydney S, Anna H, Macey, Peyton, Amber, Devin, Amelia, Jessika, and Bryan - well done!
INFORM - Assignments & Activities today and this week
- You should complete the pre-test for Module 6 by today, if you have not already!
- A tip for this module: Do ALL the vocabulary by hand for yourself - it really helps you learned the terms and differentiate between similar concepts.
- Don't forget the following activities to learn more about Pavlov and his experiments!
Due dates THIS WEEK!
More Information
Email: Kathryn.Cox@ncpublicschools.gov
Website: http://moodle.ncvps.org/
Phone: 910-984-9161
Twitter: @KCox_APPsych