explanation of latent learning with examples
Explanation of Latent Learning With Examples
Latent learning means learning without a reward, but demonstrating with one. This Buzzle article provides you with a detailed explanation of latent learning with examples.
- The latent learning psychology is said to have been first discovered by Edward C. Tolman. He proved this theory using the mice-in-the-maze' experiment.
- Apparently, Tolman divided the mice into 3 groups.
- Group 1 was rewarded every time they reached the end of the maze.
- Group 2 was initially taken out when they reached the end. Later, they were rewarded.
- Group 3 received no rewards. Every time they reached the end, they were taken out.
- Through this study, Tolman concluded that while initially, group 2 took longer to reach the end of the maze, later, they reached quickly, since a reward was lying in wait.
- This shows that the mice formed a cognitive map of the maze in their brains, and even though they processed it well, they exhibited the speed only after they discovered a motivation.
- Thus, Tolman proved that a learning process occurs between the stimulus and response, but is exhibited only with a reinforcement.
- Prior to the advent of this concept, behavioral experts were of the consensus that learning occurs only if an incentive is present, i.e., only if a reinforcement is introduced.
- However, Tolman proved that this theory was incorrect, and that learning takes place without a reinforcement.
- Do not get this wrong; pay particular attention here - the learning does take place, however, it will not manifest itself immediately. It will show up only when the need arises or when a reinforcement occurs.
- This means that even the person/animal may not be aware of this learning until he is forced to use it, or he knows that he will get an incentive on exhibiting this knowledge.
- Thus, the long-standing illusion that a reinforcement is always necessary to stimulate learning was proved false.
- Let us consider latent learning in dogs.
- Have you tried training a dog to sit, or stand, or shake paws, etc.? You would notice that during the training, trainers initially use a treat to lure the dog into learning. Perhaps, this is what threw behaviorists off course.
- However, try training him without the treat. He would resist at first. You would probably cajole or shout at him.
- One fine day, you would notice that if you have placed a bone at his kennel entrance and are determined to allow entry only if he shakes paws, he would do it. Now, how did that happen? The answer is latent learning.
- He probably learned how to shake paws in the second day of training itself. But for him to demonstrate it, you had to use a bone.
- Consider some examples in everyday life. Let's say, you have dinner with your fork and spoon while your father has it with chopsticks.
- You observe him everyday but do not use the chopsticks. Your father is probably of the assumption that you can never use a pair.
- But, if your cutlery suddenly gets soiled or breaks, you would be forced to use chopsticks, probably surprising your father.
- Thus, your learning has taken place, without a reinforcement, but has been latent until the need arose to use it.
- Just like a dog, try training a parrot.
- You can teach him to say a few words everyday.
- Most of the people use the tactic of giving him fruit or chillies and then training him to speak. Some do it without giving him anything.
- After a few days, when you would want him to demonstrate whatever words he has learned, he will not do so immediately.
- Do not think that your giving him a treat has been the reason for his learning; fact is, he already knows the words taught to him, but he will say them enthusiastically only when you offer him a treat.
- Take an example of a child being asked to dance.
- He/She may learn to dance by observing fictional characters on television.
- He/She may even dance alone in the confines of his/her room.
- But, the child may not exhibit this newly-learned art form unless asked to or unless there is a need to do so.
- You must have often noticed how parents request their kids to exhibit their talent in exchange of a treat or something similar. This is an example of latent learning.
- In an organization, as a junior employee, you will perform whatever tasks are delegated to you.
- As time progresses, you will learn to handle other responsibilities too, which may not be a part of your job profile.
- You may, over time, be adept at handling your senior's responsibilities.
- Perhaps one day, if your senior is ill or has abruptly resigned, you may step into his shoes for a few days and carry out the same duties efficiently.
- Thus, even though you knew all the jobs, you did not demonstrate them officially until the need arose.
- It might also be possible that in such a case, you will not perform the jobs unless you are paid an incentive or given a promotion.