IB Psychology Learning Perspective Quiz -4-

Edward Thorndike is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of operant conditioning. Thorndike conducted extensive research on animal behavior and learning, particularly through his famous "puzzle box" experiments with cats. His work laid the foundation for the understanding of how behavior is influenced by consequences, which was further developed by B.F. Skinner. While the other options may have made significant contributions to psychology, they are not specifically known for their contributions to operant conditioning.

The learning perspective in psychology focuses on how behavior is acquired through experiences and interactions with the environment. Empiricism is a main assumption of this perspective as it emphasizes the importance of observation and evidence in understanding behavior. Parsimony is also a main assumption as it suggests that the simplest explanation is often the best. Determinism is another main assumption as it suggests that behavior is determined by external factors and not by free will. However, ecological conservation is not a main assumption of the learning perspective in psychology.

Latent learning and observational learning are more related to free will than determinism because they both involve the individual actively acquiring knowledge and skills through their own choices and experiences. In latent learning, individuals acquire knowledge and skills without any apparent reinforcement or motivation, suggesting that they have the freedom to learn and explore new information. Observational learning also emphasizes the role of personal choice and agency, as individuals learn by observing and imitating others. These theories suggest that individuals have the ability to make conscious decisions and exercise their free will in the learning process.

The question asks for a component of operant conditioning that is not present among the given options. The correct answer, "Conditioned Response," is a term associated with classical conditioning, not operant conditioning. In operant conditioning, the focus is on the consequences of behavior, such as punishment, positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, and omission. A conditioned response, on the other hand, is a learned response to a previously neutral stimulus in classical conditioning.

The correct answer is "The mind is a black box that cannot be seen through." This sentence best fits the main idea of learning perspective in psychology because it suggests that the mind is not directly observable and its processes cannot be fully understood or known. This aligns with the idea that behavior and learning are influenced by internal mental processes that are not easily accessible or visible to external observers.