Free Classical Conditioning Theory Essay Example

There are three main learning theory types available in the field of psychology. These are the cognitive approach, operant conditioning and classical theories which bear different approaches in their understanding and application. They various differences lie in their ways of attaining the learning process effectively. However, the classical conditioning theory is the one that interested me most because it posed to be the most useful when applied in the learning process according to my perceptions. The effectiveness of the classical conditioning theory lies on the fact that it helps an individual to adapt to the specific aspect, thus improving and quickening the learning process. In reality, people may not react like Pavlov’s dogs but this theory’s techniques help in treating anxiety problems or phobias.
Just as Albert was able to learn to be afraid of the white rat, is the same way Angela, an eight year old student got affected in class. However, Angela was afraid of answering questions in class because the other children would laugh at her if the answer was wrong. These embarrassing situations induced a negative emotion in her. She stopped participating in class discussions and even missed some of the mathematics lessons. The teacher noticed Angela’s change in the classroom sessions and decided to converse with her so that he would deal with the problem. Luckily, she was able to open up and speak about her fears. As much as the teacher advised her, he knew it would not be easy for Angela to change very quickly.
The teacher decided to help her in overcoming her fears by creating a positive environment in the classroom. He gave her various opportunities of answering questions and her confidence built up slowly. In this case, the theory has been applied twice. The first is when Angela’s fear grew due to the other students’ behavior towards her and the second is how the teacher helped her gained her confidence once more. This proves my perspective of the effectiveness of the classical conditioning theory in the learning process.