Learning (Research Paper Sample)

Learning Paper
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Learning, in the simplest definition, refers to the process of acquiring knowledge (Terry, 2009). Knowledge, in this case, is broad-based, and includes many aspects like skills, attitudes and non-conscious behavior. Therefore, a scientific definition of learning must recognize that there are indicators for demonstrating that learning has occurred. Thus, learning is defined as “a relatively permanent change in behavior, or behavioral repertoire, which occurs as a result of experience (Terry, 2009)”. The actual learning process occurs inside the brain where it cannot be observed directly, so the change in behavior is used to detect that some learning has occurred.
Learning can be measured in several ways, and each form of measurement is used to demonstrate different aspects of what the subject has learnt. The subjects can verbally express what they have learnt or it can be observed in their behavior. There are also physiological responses within the body that are indicative of learning, for example increased heart rate in the face of what the subject has learnt to be dangerous. Learning also brings about changes in ‘behavioral repertoire', and these changes need not be exhibited immediately through overt behaviors. Sometimes learning occurs but the changes will only be observed much later when the testing conditions call for the exhibition of the newly acquired knowledge.
Learning occurs as a result of some experience, and the definition therefore excludes any changes in behavior that may arise due to other factors other than experience. For example, the maturation of organisms may sometimes result in changes in their behavior. These changes occur naturally without the organism having to learn them. Another aspect of learning is that it is “relatively permanent (Terry, 2009)”. In as much as people tend to forget what they have learnt in everyday life, the ability to recall facts and events from decades past is present and very strong. Different factors may influence the ability to recall or repeat the learning acquired at a particular time, but overall, the knowledge is usually there and may be repeated later under different conditions.
It has already been established that the process of learning cannot be directly observed since it occurs inside the brain, but can be inferred to have occurred based on certain behavioral changes in organisms, and also through performance. Sometimes learning occurs but there are no immediate observable changes to indicate so, a condition referred to as latent learning (Coon & Mitterer, 2012). However, most tests for learning are usually based on performance. This means that the subjects are expected to repeat or exhibit what they have learnt. Those subjects that are unable to repeat or exhibit what is expected are assumed not to have learnt. This is not necessarily true, as indicated first by the concept of latent learning. Other factors and conditions may also affect the subjects' repetition or exhibition of what has been learnt, making them unable to demonstrate knowledge that they already have. A good example is the anxiety experienced by some students during tests. There are those students who study hard and prepare well for the test but, due to anxiety, are not able to pass the test. For such students, the results of the test may be assumed to indicate poor learning or lack of knowledge in them, yet they actually have the knowledge that is required. Several studies have shown that the conditions can sometimes affect performance, and give a false picture of the learning process (Coon & Mitterer, 2012).
In studying the learning process, scholars usually take different approaches in order to understand and explain the phenomenon. There are four basic concepts that scholars use to explain about learning and memory; functional approach, behavioral approach, cognitive approach and neuroscience approach (Terry, 2009). According to the functional approach, animals are usually adapted to their environments in order for them to survive and propagate. Apart from the physical adaptatio...