Directions: Refer to your textbook and to the lecture notes for more information on all the theories of child development. The points possible for each question are listed next to each question. (30 points total)
1. Why do we use theories to explain child development and learning? (2 points)
Because theories are developed and changed depending on cultures, society and its beliefs. They are developed to provide and explanation
2. Define classical and operant conditioning. (4 points)
Classical conditioning is the learning that takes place based on an association of a stimulus that does not ordinarily elicit a response with another stimulus that does elicit the response.
Operant conditioning is a process in which a response is gradually learned via reinforcement or punishment.
a. How are they the same? How are they different? (4 points)
The stimulus in operant conditioning comes after the behavior and in classical it comes before. Operant conditioning involves voluntary behaviors, such as a child completing his or her chores, whereas classical conditioning deals with reflexive behaviors
b. Give an example of each. (4 points)
Classical conditioning: Showing a child a scary television show, making them afraid and starts to cry. After a while the child will began to cry before you turn on the tv, just the sight of the television will scare the child.
Operant conditioning: Giving a child a reward after they use the potty instead of going in the diaper. After a while the child goes the bathroom because of a positive reward.
3. Describe the nature versus nurture debate. (2 points) Nature vs. nurture describes whether or not child development was based on genetics or environment. Does a child learn from his or her genetic timeline or from where the child lives or spends more time.