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History, Civics & Social Studies · Grade 11

Learning and Memory

How do we learn from experience, and why do memories fade or change? Learners analyze classical conditioning (Pavlov), operant conditioning (reinforcement, punishment and schedules), and observational learning (Bandura), then study memory as encoding, storage and retrieval: working memory, the forgetting curve (Ebbinghaus), the testing effect and spacing (Roediger and Karpicke), and the reconstructive nature of memory shown by Loftus and Palmer's 'smashed' versus 'hit' study. Examples are everyday and nonclinical.

  • 4 lessons
  • About 140 minutes
  • Learning and memory check: 9 questions
  • Ways to answer: fill in the blanks, choose an answer, estimate, highlight a text, match pairs and type a number
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What learners will discover

  • Identify the components and processes of classical conditioning in new examples.
  • Distinguish types of reinforcement and punishment, reinforcement schedules and observational learning.
  • Explain encoding, storage and retrieval, the limits of working memory and the pattern of forgetting.
  • Use research on retrieval practice, spacing and misinformation to explain how memory can be strengthened or distorted.

Lessons

  1. Classical conditioning 4 steps3 practiceabout 33 min
  2. Operant and observational learning 4 steps3 practiceabout 35 min
  3. Memory systems and forgetting 4 steps3 practiceabout 35 min
  4. Strengthening and distorting memory 5 steps4 practiceabout 37 min
  5. Learning and memory check 9 questions at the end

Keep exploring

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Guide for grown-ups