The following models explain the process by which we learn:

  1. Classical conditioning model
  2. Operant conditioning model
  3. Cognitive model
  4. Social learning model

1. Classical conditioning model:

This model is associated with Pavlov. This theory attributes learning to the association or connection between stimulus (S) and response (R).

Classical conditioning is a style of conditioning in which an individual responds to some stimulus that would not ordinarily produce such a response. The S--R connection is learned. For example; an individual surprised by a loud sound (stimulus), jumps/screams (response).

Russian physiologist Ivan P. Pavlov discovered a major type of learning called classical conditioning learning model. He proved his learning model by having experiment on dog.

When Pavlov presented a piece of meat to the dog, he noticed a great deal of salivation. Pavlov subsequently introduced the sound of a bell each time the meat was given to the dog. The dog eventually learned to salivate in response to the ringing of the bell even when there was no meat. Pavlov has conditioned the dog to respond to a learned stimulus.

2. Operant conditioning model:

This model is associated with B.F. Skinner, American psychologist. This model states that behavior is a function of its consequences. It is learning of habit through reinforcement. Reinforcement is anything that learner finds rewarding. This model is based on R—S. for example; an individual: increases productivity (response), receives incentives (stimulus).

The learning of complex human behaviors can be explained or better understood by looking at operant conditioning. This model is an alternative approach to classical conditioning. Skinner did the experiment on Rats and Pigeons to prove this learning model. In the experiment on rat; A rat is in a operant chamber.

The rat has its paw on the lever and its nose at the spout of the feeder. When the animal presses the lever, a food pellet is delivered from the feeder. The delivery of a food pellet is contingent on the response of pressing the lever. The contingently delivered food pellets act to reinforce the lever-pressing response.

Similarly, it was done with pigeons. From these two experiments on rats and pigeons in operant chamber, Skinner find out, human behavior is a function of its consequences. People learn to behave to get something they want or to avoid something they don’t want.

3. Cognitive model:

This model is developed by Edward C. Tolman. Cognition refers to an individual’s thoughts, knowledge, interpretations and understandings about oneself and the environment. It is a process of acquiring knowledge.

This model states that learning involves a relationship between cognitive environmental cues and expectations. It is based on S—S connection. One stimulus leads to another. Learning is the outcome of thinking and knowing.  

Cognitive theory assumes that people are conscious active participants in how they learn. For example; an employee faced with a choice of job assignments will use previous experiences in deciding which one to accept. People make choices about their behavior. People recognize the consequences of their choices.

Tolman did experiment on white rat and monkey. How white rat finds food plate (goal) having different alternative paths. Similarly, Monkey kept in a cage with two short stick, then how money find out the banana, by combining two sticks. Tolman, find out that, learning took place inside the mind. This type of learning is very important in OB for changing attitudes by the individuals.

4. Social learning model:

This model states that people can learn through observation and direct experience. It combines and integrates operant conditioning and cognitive models. As in operant conditioning, it assumes that behavior is a function of consequences. As in cognitive model, it recognizes that there is more to learning than direct learning.

People respond to how they perceive and define consequences rather than the consequences themselves. This model takes behavioral modeling approach to learning. People can learn from watching models- parents, teachers, peers, bosses, celebrities, etc. Learning occurs by observing others and then modelling their behavior for reward.

Individuals can also learn by observing what happens to other people or just by being hold about something, as well as by direct experiences.

We can learn through both observation and direct experience is called social-learning theory. This theory states that, much learning occurs by observing others. They start modelling the behaviors that led to favorable outcomes and avoiding behaviors that lead to punishment consequences.