The document discusses several theories of learning: 1) Observational learning or social learning involves learning from observing and modeling others, such as siblings. Demonstrations are important for learning motor skills at all stages. 2) Operant conditioning according to Skinner involves learning from previous experiences to act in new situations. Positive and negative reinforcement strengthen behavior while punishment weakens it. 3) Positive and negative reinforcement strengthen the stimulus-response bond according to Thorndike's law of effect. Repetition and practice are important for learning according to the law of exercise. The learner must be ready physically and psychologically according to the law of readiness.

1. Theories of Learning. Aims: To know and understand the key theories of learning. Be able to relate them to sporting examples. To understand how significant others can impact upon an active an healthy lifestyle.

2. Recap Transfer. See the worksheet on Transfer.

3. Observational Learning. You may know this as social learning. Learning as a youngster from your brother/sister etc. this is known as Modelling Observing others if a powerful tool used in the learning of motor skills. If a demonstration/observation occurs then a model (visual picture) of the technique is developed. Demonstrations are important for learning at all stages old and young. Can the demo be by anyone and on anything? See page 195-196 What practice method would suit this type of learning?

4. Operant Conditioning (Skinner) The learner uses previous experiences to act within the new situation. What would you do if you had an unsatisfactory experience after responding to a stimulus? Positive and Negative reinforcement are key to strengthening behaviour. Punishment serves to weaken behaviour. Can you think of an example where your behaviour has been shaped by any the three?

5. Positive + Negative Reinforcement. Positive: Praise etc. Motivates the performer and strengthens the S-R bond. Negative: The withdrawal of constant shouting by a coach lets the performers know they have done well. This also strengthens the S-R bond. Punishment: Weakens the S-R bond and reduces the chances of behaviour being repeated. What method of learning allows the most reinforcement?

6. Thorndykes laws of learning. 1. Law of effect – The consequences of a response shape the behaviour in the future. Satisfaction increases the chances of repeated performance, positive reinforcement plays a key role in this . 2. Law of exercise – The more often a response is reinforced the stronger the learning bond will become. Repetition/Practice of the skill is essential . 3. Law of readiness – The learner must be physically and psychologically ready to to learn . Age and motivation are key factors.

7. Cognitive learning theory. Major cognitive theory is Gestalts. The whole method of learning is important for cognitive learning. The student has to draw upon their previous experiences to help them solve problems. The learner has to have insight in how to solve the problem. Mental rehearsal/imagery are important. E.g. Think of when you have struggled to learn a skill and then it all comes together very quickly. Riding a Bike? Driving a car. Think of when you have done team building tasks.

8. Homework. Read over the notes you have made. Read and take notes on Bandura’s four stage process model of observational learning. Page. 196 – 197.