Classical conditioning is a learning theory discovered by Ivan Pavlov in which a reflex response becomes associated with a previously neutral stimulus. Through Pavlov's famous experiment with dogs, he found that a dog could be conditioned to salivate at the sound of a bell through repeated pairing with food. Teachers can apply classical conditioning principles in the classroom to shape student behaviors through the use of rewards, punishments, and stimuli like flashing lights. Conditioning students in this way makes it easier for them to learn by creating positive classroom environments and responses to teacher cues.