Now celebrating its 50th anniversary, An Introduction to Theories of Learning has provided a uniquely sweeping review of the major learning theories from the 20th century that profoundly influenced the field of psychology. The four main goals of this text are to define learning, to show how the learning process is studied, to place learning theory in a historical perspective, and to present essential features of the major theories of learning with implications for educational practices.
In this new edition, the authors have retained the best features of earlier additions while expanding and enhancing its application to modern scholarship. Key features of the eleventh edition include:
- Enhanced neuroscience integration, including discussions on cortical waves, mirror neurons, memory consolidation, and brain-based evidence supporting classic learning theories.
- The incorporation of new findings on species-specific behaviors and habituation, including insightful problem-solving in birds and the neurobiological basis of insight in humans.
- New sections on artificial intelligence applications in education, improved study techniques based on large-scale research, and the implementation of learning principles in public health.
- Enhanced pedagogy to increase engagement, including interactive online self-testing questions.
Bringing together contributions from throughout history through to the modern day, this is an essential resource for applied cognitive psychology courses and all those interested in the processes that underlie learning in human beings and animals.
Table of Contents:
Preface
Part 1: Introduction to Learning
Chapter 1: What is Learning?
Chapter 2: Approaches to the Study of Learning
Chapter 3: Early Notions About Learning
Part 2: Predominantly Functionalistic Theories
Chapter 4: Edward Lee Thorndike
Chapter 5: Burrhus Frederic Skinner
Chapter 6: Clark Leonard Hull
Part 3: Predominantly Associationistic Theories
Chapter 7: Ivan Petrovich Pavlov
Chapter 8: Edwin Ray Guthrie
Chapter 9: William Kaye Estes
Part 4: Predominantly Cognitive Theories
Chapter 10: Gestalt Theory
Chapter 11: Jean Piaget
Chapter 12: Edward Chace Tolman
Chapter 13: Albert Bandura
Part 5: Predominantly Neurophysiological Theory
Chapter 14: Donald Olding Hebb
Part 6: An Evolutionary Theory
Chapter 15: Robert C. Bolles and Evolutionary Psychology
Part 7: Reflections
Chapter 16: A Final Word
About the Author :
Julio J. Ramirez is the R. Stuart Dickson Professor of Psychology and Director of the Neuroscience Program at Davidson College.
Matthew H. Olson was Professor and Chair of the Psychology Department at Hamline University.
Review :
"Newly updated for the 11th edition, An Introduction to Theories of Learning stands out as a unique and essential resource for all those who seek to understand more about the nature of learning. Here, the reader can examine the contributions of such historic figures as Darwin, Pavlov, Thorndike, Skinner, Hebb, Tolman and others to what is known about this vital characteristic of nervous systems. Importantly, the text draws from such areas as neuroscience, psychology, and the development of artificial intelligence to feature compelling contemporary research throughout—research that both points out and clarifies for the reader the relevance of theories of learning in the pursuit of understanding ourselves. In this new edition, the authors work to well prepare the reader to appreciate advances that are yet to be realized: that theories of learning continue to develop and differentiate, to inspire and drive critical research today. And will do so tomorrow.
Clearly written and engaging, An Introduction to Theories of Learning is also well-structured for adoption in psychology, neuroscience, and education curricula with chapter outlines, summaries and thought questions."
Eric Wiertelak, Ph.D, Emeritus Professor, Macalester College, Minnesota, USA.
"This book is a tour de force in theories of learning and a must-read for anyone interested in this topic. It makes for a superb textbook for either undergraduate or graduate courses, as the links made between all the major theories and the new discoveries in psychology and neuroscience bring to life many of the hypothetical constructs that otherwise lie dormant in most textbooks on this subject. The authors deftly weave a narrative that integrates the subtleties in the major theories of learning with recent neuroscientific developments which ground them in a highly lucid manner that is thoughtful, thoroughly refreshing, and enjoyable!"
Gary Dunbar, Ph.D, John G. Kulhavi Endowed Professor and E. Malcolm Field Endowed Chair of Neuroscience, Central Michigan University, USA.
"In the 11th edition of An Introduction to Theories of Learning Ramirez and Olson build on five decades of success to deliver an engaging and accessible overview of the key ideas that have shaped the science of learning. The book takes readers on a comprehensive journey beginning with ancient Greek philosophers and culminating in the latest research in neuroscience and artificial intelligence. Readers are encouraged to think deeply and critically, guided by critiques and comparisons of the major theories and discussion questions at the end of each chapter. This edition will be valuable to students and educators from a range of disciplines, including psychology, education, human development, and neuroscience."
Keith A. Trujillo, Ph.D, Emeritus Professor, California State University San Marcos, USA.
