The Enduring Definition of Learning: A SEO Optimized Guide to Psychological Insights
Michelle Kirby, a renowned psychologist, defines learning as 'a relatively permanent change in behavior as a result of experience'. This definition by Michelle Kirby highlights the critical aspects of learning such as durability, flexibility, and context dependence. Let's delve deeper into these key components:
Understanding the Core Components of Learning
Durability
The durability of learning refers to the persistence of the changes in behavior over time. As noted by Michelle Kirby, when an individual learns something, the effects last for a prolonged period. For instance, learning to ride a bicycle, once mastered, remains with the individual even after years of not riding. This is attributed to the repeated exposure to the activity and the reinforcement of the learned behavior. Persistence is crucial as it ensures that the learned skills or knowledge have a lasting impact on the individual's future actions.
Flexibility
The flexibility of learning is another critical aspect. While the learned behavior remains stable over time, it can be modified or overridden by new learning experiences or changes in circumstances. This indicates that while initial learning is permanent, the behavior can adapt to new situations. For example, if an individual learns to ride a mountain bike, they may need to adapt their skills to handle different conditions. Thus, the original learning remains but can be updated or modified based on new experiences.
Context Dependence
The context dependence of learning suggests that the permanence of the learned behavior might change based on the environment or situation in which the learning occurred. The effectiveness of a learned skill can vary depending on the context. For instance, a language learner may find it easier to recall vocabulary and grammar structures in a language immersion program compared to a standard classroom setting. This context dependency emphasizes the importance of varied learning environments to reinforce and solidify learned behaviors.
Exploring the Remoteness of Learning
The permanence of learning is not uniform and varies based on several factors. Michelle Kirby mentions that the nature of learning, reinforcement, and frequency of use play significant roles in determining the durability of learned behaviors:
Nature of Learning
Skills learned through practice, such as riding a bike, tend to be more permanent than knowledge that is quickly forgotten, such as memorizing a list. The repetitive nature of practice helps solidify the learned behavior in the individual's memory. Practice and exposure are critical components in the process of learning and retaining information.
Reinforcement
Behaviors that are reinforced, either positively or negatively, are more likely to be retained. Positive reinforcement, such as praise or reward, encourages the repetition of the behavior. Negative reinforcement, such as avoiding discomfort, also motivates adherence to the learned behavior. The absence of reinforcement can lead to the fading of learned behaviors over time.
Frequency of Use
Regularly practicing skills or knowledge increases the likelihood of retaining those behaviors. The more frequently an individual uses a skill or information, the more accessible it becomes. For example, a musician who plays their instrument daily is more likely to retain their skills than someone who does not practice regularly.
Examples of Learning in Action
Learning to Ride a Bicycle
Initial Learning: An individual starts to learn how to ride a bike by practicing balancing, pedaling, and steering. This process can be challenging and may involve several attempts, including falls and corrections. This initial phase is crucial as it establishes the foundation for the learned behavior.
Change in Behavior: After mastering the initial skills, the individual can ride a bike without assistance, demonstrating a relatively permanent change in behavior. This indicates that the learned skills are now ingrained and can be easily accessed when needed.
Durability: Even after not riding a bike for several years, the individual is likely to recall how to ride it when they try again, highlighting the durability of the learned behavior.
Flexibility: If the individual later learns to ride a different type of bike, such as a mountain bike, they may need to adapt their skills. This shows that while the initial learning remains, it can be modified and updated based on new experiences.
Summary
Learning is a multifaceted process that involves the acquisition and retention of knowledge and skills. It is an intellectual exercise, but regular practice is essential for mastery. Once learned, behaviors tend to persist over time due to the nature of the learning, reinforcement, and frequency of use. However, learning remains flexible and can be adapted to new situations and contexts.
You have learned a vast array of skills and behaviors, from sitting and walking to solving complex problems and empathizing with others. Regular practice ensures that these learned behaviors remain accessible and effective. Even if a significant period passes without practice, the learned skills can be quickly revived. For instance, you can learn that addiction is harmful but must practice deaddiction daily to maintain sobriety.
By understanding the core components of learning, such as durability, flexibility, and context dependence, you can enhance your own learning experiences and ensure that the acquired skills and knowledge remain relevant and effective over time.