Classical Conditioning

Behavioral StudiesPedagogy & Learning

A form of learning in which a neutral stimulus, after repeated pairing with a meaningful stimulus, comes to trigger a similar response on its own.

First described through Pavlov's experiments with dogs, classical conditioning explains how associations form automatically. In education it helps explain emotional responses to school, such as test anxiety becoming linked to exam halls.

Related Terms
Operant Conditioning
A form of learning, described by B.F. Skinner, in which behaviour is shaped by its consequences, with reinforcement increasing and punishment decreasing the likelihood of a behaviour recurring.
Behaviorism
A theory of learning holding that behaviour is acquired through conditioning and shaped by interaction with the environment, focusing on observable responses rather than internal mental states.
Reinforcement
In behavioural psychology, any consequence that strengthens the behaviour it follows, whether by adding a desirable stimulus (positive) or removing an aversive one (negative).
Motivation
The internal and external forces that initiate, direct and sustain goal-directed behaviour, including learning.
Cognitive Load
The amount of mental effort demanded by a learning task.