Introduction to Theories of Learning

Julio J. Ramirez is the R. Stuart Dickson Professor of Psychology and Director of the Neuroscience Program at Davidson College.Matthew H. Olson was Professor and Chair of the Psychology Department at Hamline University.

• PrefacePart 1: Introduction to LearningChapter 1: What is Learning?Chapter 2: Approaches to the Study of LearningChapter 3: Early Notions About LearningPart 2: Predominantly Functionalistic TheoriesChapter 4: Edward Lee ThorndikeChapter 5: Burrhus Frederic SkinnerChapter 6: Clark Leonard HullPart 3: Predominantly Associationistic TheoriesChapter 7: Ivan Petrovich PavlovChapter 8: Edwin Ray GuthrieChapter 9: William Kaye EstesPart 4: Predominantly Cognitive TheoriesChapter 10: Gestalt TheoryChapter 11: Jean PiagetChapter 12: Edward Chace TolmanChapter 13: Albert BanduraPart 5: Predominantly Neurophysiological TheoryChapter 14: Donald Olding HebbPart 6: An Evolutionary TheoryChapter 15: Robert C. Bolles and Evolutionary PsychologyPart 7: ReflectionsChapter 16: A Final Word

"Newly updated for the 11th edition, An Introduction to Theories of Learning stands out as a unique and essential resource for all those who seek to understand more about the nature of learning. Here, the reader can examine the contributions of such historic figures as Darwin, Pavlov, Thorndike, Skinner, Hebb, Tolman and others to what is known about this vital characteristic of nervous systems. Importantly, the text draws from such areas as neuroscience, psychology, and the development of artificial intelligence to feature compelling contemporary research throughout—research that both points out and clarifies for the reader the relevance of theories of learning in the pursuit of understanding ourselves. In this new edition, the authors work to well prepare the reader to appreciate advances that are yet to be realized: that theories of learning continue to develop and differentiate, to inspire and drive critical research today. And will do so tomorrow.Clearly written and engaging, An Introduction to Theories of Learning is also well-structured for adoption in psychology, neuroscience, and education curricula with chapter outlines, summaries and thought questions."- Eric Wiertelak, (Ph.D) Emeritus Professor, Macalester College, Minnesota, USA."This book is a tour de force in theories of learning and a must-read for anyone interested in this topic. It makes for a superb textbook for either undergraduate or graduate courses, as the links made between all the major theories and the new discoveries in psychology and neuroscience bring to life many of the hypothetical constructs that otherwise lie dormant in most textbooks on this subject. The authors deftly weave a narrative that integrates the subtleties in the major theories of learning with recent neuroscientific developments which ground them in a highly lucid manner that is thoughtful, thoroughly refreshing, and enjoyable!"Gary Dunbar, Ph.D, John G. Kulhavi Endowed Professor and E. Malcolm Field Endowed Chair of Neuroscience, Central Michigan University, USA. "In the 11th edition of An Introduction to Theories of Learning Ramirez and Olson build on nearly four decades of success to deliver an engaging and accessible overview of the key ideas that have shaped the science of learning. The book takes readers on a comprehensive journey beginning with ancient Greek philosophers and culminating in the latest research in neuroscience and artificial intelligence. Readers are encouraged to think deeply and critically, guided by critiques and comparisons of the major theories and discussion questions at the end of each chapter. This edition will be valuable to students and educators from a range of disciplines, including psychology, education, human development, and neuroscience."- Keith A. Trujillo, Ph.D, Emeritus Professor, California State University San Marcos, USA.