Chapter 1. Learning Through Operant Conditioning

Operant conditioning is a type of learning in which we associate our voluntary actions with the consequences of those actions. For example, a pigeon naturally pecks things. But if every time the pigeon pecks a ball, it is given a reinforcer, the pigeon will soon learn to peck the ball more frequently.

B. F. Skinner showed that operant conditioning could do more than elicit simple, isolated actions. He taught pigeons to “bowl” and play “tennis” with the help of shaping; that is, he observed their behaviors and provided reinforcers when they performed at a required level. Today, shaping is used routinely by parents, teachers, coaches, and employers to train all kinds of complex behaviors.