Trial and error theory proposes that learning occurs through a process of motivated responses to stimuli, elimination of incorrect responses, and integration of correct responses. Learning takes place incrementally through chance successes rather than insightful thinking. Critics argue that the theory is too mechanical and emphasizes fruitless trial without understanding, but it implies that education should start with easier concepts and build through practice, repetition, and reinforcement or punishment, allowing students to learn skills through making and correcting mistakes.

1. Characteristics of
Learning in Trial
& Error Theory
Dr. Pratibha Sagar
Department of Education
MJP Rohilkhand University
Bareilly

2. Characteristics of Learning
Learning Takes place in same
manner in animals as well as
humans.

3. Characteristics of Learning
Learning is incremental not insightful.
Learning is not mediated by thinking
or reasoning.

4. Features of Trial
& Error Theory

5. Features of Theory
Motive
Responses
Elimination of responses
Integration of responses

6. Requirement of
Trial & Error
Theory

7. Requirements of Theory
Drives
Barrier
Random movements

8. Requirements of Theory
Chance success
Selection
Fixation

9. Criticism of
Thorndike’s
Theory

10. Criticism of Theory
Emphasis upon fruitless efforts
Descriptive
Wastage of time
Mechanical
Stress on learning by rote

11. Criticism of Theory
Mechanical
Stress on learning by rote
Success is incidental

12. Educational
Implications

13. Educational Implications
The task can be started from
easier aspect towards its
difficult side. It is beneficial for
weaker and backward children.

14. Educational Implications
 A Small child can learns some
skills through trial and error
method only such as sitting,
standing, running, walking etc.

15. Educational Implications
In teaching also the child
rectifies the writing after
committing mistakes.

16. Educational Implications
Practice leads a man towards
maturity. Practice is the main
feature of trial and error
method.

17. Educational Implications
Habits are formed as a result of
repetition. Wrong habits of
children can be modified and
good habits strengthened.

18. Educational Implications
The effect of reward and
punishment also affect the
learning of child.

19. Educational Implications
Students should be motivated
for learning a particular task.
Teacher should use various
motivational techniques.

20. Educational Implications
It is helpful in changing the
behaviour of delinquent
children.

21. Educational Implications
Teacher can control the
negative emotions of the
children such as anger, jealousy
etc.

22. Educational Implications
Teacher can improve teaching
methods by observing the effect
of his teaching method on the
students.

23. Educational Implications
Teacher should conduct oral
drill of the taught content. It
helps in strengthening the
learning.