PSY2014S
JANUARY 1, 2024
UCT
KYLCHL001
,Remembering can be divided in two broad processes:
1. The process of sensation to neuronal response.
2. The process of translating neuronal response into what we call learning and/or memory.
Learning and Memory
Learning can be understood as the process of creating an internalized representation of an event/stimulus (or,
a memory).
What is memory?
Memory is NB as it helps us keep a record of events to learn from past experiences and plan for the future. It
helps us structure our time and create a purpose across our timelines.
The three-stage model of memory
, • Learning is the first step in understanding memory.
• Historically, researchers have distinguished between two major types of learning:
• Classical conditioning
• Operant (Instrumental) conditioning
Classical (refer to past notes)
• Ivan Pavlov
• Classical condition: pairing two stimuli changes the response to one of them
• CS -> initially elicits no response
• UCS -> UCR
• CS II UCS -> UCR
• CS -> CR
What happens when the dog sees a nice juicy steak?
• What happens when doggo sees a metronome?
Nothing.
• Imagine we pair the metronome and the steak.
• Will the dog salivate? Yes, because he automatically responds to the steak.
• Finally, after the “pairing” stage, how will the dog respond to hearing the metronome? The two were
paired and he now associates the metronome with receiving steak, so will salivate.
Will the CR always
resemble the UCR? No