learning is defined as "an relatively permanent change in behavior that occurs as a result of experience". Is this a universal definition or does it vary by culture? Defend your position.

I think it's a universal definition. However, there is a vast continuum of learning and the change of behavior varies a great deal.

For instance, a young child burns his finger by touching a lighted candle and learns that fire is hot. This probably results in a permanent change in his behavior, and he doesn't stick his finger in a flame again.

However, learning the states and capitals usually results in a short-term change in behavior. The student who aces the states and capitals test will probably forget many of them soon.

Some learning may change as the person learns more. As a child, I detested the taste of pineapple and avoided it. However, as an adult I tasted ripe pineapple, found it delicious, and altered my behavior again.

To determine whether the definition of learning as "a relatively permanent change in behavior that occurs as a result of experience" is universal or varies by culture, we can employ a two-step approach.

First, we can analyze the concept of learning and its definition from a cross-cultural perspective. Various cultures around the world value and prioritize different aspects of learning. While the fundamental process of acquiring knowledge and skills through experience may be universal, the interpretation and manifestation of learning can differ across cultures. For example, some cultures may prioritize formal education and academic achievements as the primary indicators of learning, while others place more emphasis on practical skills, experiential knowledge, or oral traditions.

Second, we can examine the academic literature and research in the field of cross-cultural psychology and education. Studies suggest that cultural factors influence how learning is perceived, valued, and practiced within different societies. For instance, cultural preferences for collectivism or individualism, high or low power distance, and varying learning styles can all shape how individuals and communities approach and define learning.

Given these considerations, it is reasonable to argue that the definition of learning may vary by culture. While many cultures recognize the core concept of acquiring knowledge through experience, the specific understanding, evaluation, and application of learning may differ significantly in different cultural contexts.

To solidify this position further, one could conduct research by comparing different cultures' perspectives on learning through surveys, interviews, and observations. Analyzing cultural artifacts such as educational systems, pedagogical practices, and cultural norms related to learning can also provide valuable insights into the variations in the definition and understanding of learning across different cultures.