BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS AND LEARNING
- Traditional approach
- Based on reflex physiology and physics
- Emphasizes methodology
- Problems with the traditional approach
- Some examples of learning are not easily described (e.g., bird
song)
- The methodology often has to be "tuned"
- In the absence of tuning, "misbehavior" is often observed
- Yet, this is ignored in our description of the behavior
- Behavioral system approach (Timberlake)
- Historical roots
- Its philosophical roots lie in functionalism & naturalism
- Its scientific roots lie in evolutionary biology & classical
chemistry
- Behavioral systems
- Definition
- Critical features
- Motivational processes prime & organize lower structures
- Perceptual-motor structures (modules) relate S to R components
- Hierarchical control
- General characteristics
- Components
- System
- Subsystem
- Modes
- Perceptual-motor modules
- Functional aspects
- Learning within the behavioral systems approach
- Application of the behavioral system approach
- Readily accommodates contraints and predispositions
- Anticipates the form of the CR may vary
- Does not distinguish between Pavlovian & operant learning
- Temporal contiguity determines structures engaged
- Not whether learning occus
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