Psychology Facts

▲ Learning ▲

Sorry if this ones a little boring

》The psychology of learning encompasses theories and research on how individuals learn. Various theories exist, with some adopting a behaviorist approach that emphasizes inputs and reinforcements.

》3 Types of Learning in Psychology

Classical Conditioning:
Classical conditioning is a learning process where an association is formed between a neutral stimulus and one that naturally triggers a response. For instance, if someone doesn't know how to swim and falls into a pool, they may develop a fear of swimming.

Operant Conditioning:
Operant conditioning is a learning process where the likelihood of a response is influenced by reinforcement or punishment. Studied by Edward Thorndike and B.F. Skinner, it suggests that consequences shape voluntary behavior. For instance, a child may complete homework to receive treats or praise. Similarly, a teenager may refrain from speeding after witnessing their sibling's consequences, such as fines and restrictions.

Observational Learning:
Observational learning is a process where learning takes place by observing and imitating others. Albert Bandura's social learning theory proposes that people learn not only through conditioning but also by observing and imitating others' actions.

》Learning involves significant changes in the brain, including the formation of new connections between neurons, a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. With practice, these connections strengthen, enhancing the learning process.

》An analysis by Justin Dillon from King's College in London found that practice work or labs in science curriculums, intended to reinforce textbook concepts, may not always be as effective as assumed.

》The Royal Horticulture Society in the UK has initiated a campaign to reintroduce gardening into school systems, with thousands of schools participating. Some findings indicate that gardening serves as a vital learning tool for children, fostering their desire to learn and boosting their confidence.

Kids who garden show a better ability to concentrate.

Gardening helped use up surplus energy in active kids.

The process of growing something from seed to fruit helps teach children responsibility and managing a living organism.

Some students learned valuable math skills as they sold their produce to the town for a profit.
Getting in touch with the dirt and bugs, helped some young students overcome their fears.

An English teacher found her student's creativity in poetry expanded after working in the garden.

》Researchers have found that playing with blocks can significantly increase neuron count in children. Even just 15 minutes of free play with blocks can lead to learning about mathematical and spatial principles. Blocks, as one of the oldest and simplest toys, effectively teach geometry, patterns, shapes, colors, and physics.

》Teaching kids at a very early age might hinder their learning process, according to a study. When children were given a multifunctional toy, those who received specific instructions from a teacher explored it less than those who were left to discover its functions independently. This suggests that allowing children to explore without explicit guidance encourages deeper learning and discovery of hidden features.

》Access to green spaces and natural environments can enhance children's learning through discovery. A study published in the Journal of Children, Youth, and Environments by Colorado University found that students exposed to green woodlands and ponds demonstrated higher levels of social cooperation and creativity compared to those with only access to asphalt yards with jungle gyms.

》Rap music has been shown to aid children in learning mathematical concepts such as place value. The Southwest Educational Development Laboratory developed a classroom math lesson incorporating a rap song. The rhythmic cadence and rhyming of words in rap music facilitate memorization, making it easier for children to grasp mathematical rules embedded in the lyrics.

》Engaging in laughing activities can enhance memory retention in children, according to Pam Schiller and Clarissa A. Willis, PhD authors, speakers, and curriculum specialists. Laughter not only aids in remembering humorous content but also fosters feelings of security and contentment in children. To leverage this, teachers can incorporate funny songs, games, or silly phrases to initiate lessons effectively.

》Recent research has revealed that daydreaming, often perceived as unproductive, actually has numerous benefits. Contrary to common belief, daydreaming is linked to a longer attention span, heightened creativity, increased determination, and even a higher IQ.