Using the format of an experimental write-up*, describe (and illustrate) 2 of the following 3 important Behavioral/Learning experiments:
1) Sen’s “Learned Helplessness” experiment
2) Skinner’s “Latent Learning” experiment
3) Bandura’s Observational Learning (Modeling) “Bobo Doll” experiment
b) Key terms: Independent Variable(s); Dependent Variable(s); Control Group/Control subjects; Experimental Group/Experimental subjects
In other words, differentiate the PROCEDURES and RESULTS for the Control vs. the Experimental groups and identify the key variables.
Whichever two you look up on Google, you need to understand the basic aspects of the classical experiment. Here is a review:
An independent variable is the potential stimulus or cause, usually directly manipulated by the experimenter, so it could also be called a manipulative variable.
A dependent variable is the response or measure of results.
Extraneous variables — other than the independent variable — potentially can affect the dependent variable, so they must be controlled. If possible, you try to keep them constant between the experimental and control group.
The experimental group receives the independent variable.
The control group is similar to experimental, except it does not receive the independent variable. Extraneous variables are balanced between experimental and control groups.
I hope this helps.
Experimental Write-up:
Title: Sen's "Learned Helplessness" Experiment
Introduction:
Sen's "Learned Helplessness" experiment aimed to investigate the concept of learned helplessness, which suggests that when individuals perceive that they have no control over a situation, they may develop a belief that their actions will have no effect, leading to learned helplessness. This experiment explores the effects of uncontrollable stressors on subsequent behavior.
Hypothesis:
The experimental group exposed to uncontrollable stressors will exhibit learned helplessness compared to the control group.
Variables:
- Independent Variable: Exposure to uncontrollable stressors.
- Dependent Variable: Learned helplessness.
- Control Group: Participants not exposed to stressors.
- Experimental Group: Participants exposed to uncontrollable stressors.
Methods:
1. Participants were randomly assigned to either the control group or experimental group.
2. Control Group: Participants were placed in a situation without any stressors or aversive stimuli.
3. Experimental Group: Participants were exposed to uncontrollable stressors, such as electric shocks that could not be avoided or predicted.
4. After the exposure period, all participants were placed in a situation where they had the opportunity to escape or avoid aversive stimuli.
5. The behavior of participants in both groups was observed and recorded, focusing on their level of escape or avoidance behavior.
Results:
1. Control Group: Participants displayed motivated and proactive behavior, actively trying to escape or avoid aversive stimuli.
2. Experimental Group: Participants exhibited learned helplessness, displaying passive and resigned behavior, failing to escape or avoid the aversive stimuli.
3. The difference in behavior between the control and experimental groups was statistically significant, supporting the hypothesis that exposure to uncontrollable stressors leads to learned helplessness.
______________________________________________________________
Title: Skinner's "Latent Learning" Experiment
Introduction:
Skinner's "Latent Learning" experiment aimed to investigate whether learning can occur even in the absence of explicit reinforcement. The experiment explores the concept of latent learning, suggesting that individuals can acquire knowledge and skills without immediate reinforcement, which can be later demonstrated when reinforcement is provided.
Hypothesis:
The experimental group, exposed to a learning task without reinforcement, will show evidence of latent learning compared to the control group.
Variables:
- Independent Variable: Reinforcement.
- Dependent Variable: Latent learning.
- Control Group: Participants not exposed to the learning task.
- Experimental Group: Participants exposed to the learning task without reinforcement.
Methods:
1. Participants were randomly assigned to either the control group or experimental group.
2. Control Group: Participants were not exposed to the learning task.
3. Experimental Group: Participants were exposed to a learning task, such as navigating through a maze, without any explicit reinforcement.
4. After a specific period of time, both control and experimental group participants were given reinforcement, such as treats or rewards for completing the task.
5. The behavior of participants in both groups was observed and recorded, focusing on their performance and speed in completing the task.
Results:
1. Control Group: Participants who were not exposed to the learning task showed no improvement in maze navigation skills.
2. Experimental Group: Participants showed evidence of latent learning, displaying improved performance and speed in completing the maze task following the introduction of reinforcement.
3. The difference in performance between the control and experimental groups was statistically significant, supporting the hypothesis that latent learning can occur even in the absence of explicit reinforcement.