Module 23 Introduction

Biology, Cognition, and Learning

FROM DROOLING DOGS, RUNNING RATS, and pecking pigeons, we have learned much about the basic processes of learning through classical and operant conditioning. But conditioning principles don’t tell us the whole story. Today’s learning theorists recognize that learning is the product of the interaction of biological, psychological, and social-cultural influences (FIGURE 23.1).

Figure 23.1
Biopsychosocial influences on learning Our learning results not only from environmental experiences, but also from cognitive and biological influences.