According to E.C. Tolman, one cognitive factor of learning is ______ of behavior, the idea that much of behavior is goal-directed.
Answer (2)
E.C. Tolman introduced the concept of 'purposefulness' of behavior, which asserts that much of human behavior is motivated by specific goals. This idea highlights the cognitive aspects of learning, emphasizing that understanding one's environment and objectives is crucial for effective learning. Tolman's work laid the groundwork for modern cognitive psychology by linking behavior to mental processes and purpose.
;
E.C. Tolman, a prominent psychologist, proposed a theory related to cognitive factors in learning known as 'purposive behaviorism.' According to Tolman, much of behavior is 'goal-directed.' The missing word in the question you're asking about is 'purposefulness.'
Here's a bit more detail to understand Tolman's theory:
Who was E.C. Tolman?
Edward C. Tolman was an American psychologist known for developing a branch of psychology termed purposive behaviorism. His work mostly took place in the mid-20th century.
What is purposive behaviorism?
While traditional behaviorism focuses on stimulus-response relationships without considering mental states, Tolman's purposive behaviorism suggests that individuals can act in ways that are directed toward achieving specific goals. This implies that internal cognitive processes, such as thoughts and expectations, play a significant role.
When was this theory prominent?
This theory gained prominence in the mid-20th century when Tolman was actively conducting his research.
Why is this important?
Tolman's theory marked a shift away from simple stimulus-response explanations. It acknowledged that animals and humans act with purpose and make decisions based on expected outcomes, which was foundational to the development of cognitive psychology.
How did Tolman demonstrate this?
Through experiments, like the famous 'Tolman’s rats' maze experiments, he demonstrated that rats could develop a cognitive map of a maze, which means they learned the layout with an aim or goal, rather than just responding to stimuli like lights or food. This was evidence of learning with purpose and intent.
In summary, the missing word 'purposefulness' highlights the central idea in Tolman’s theory that behavior is often driven by goals and objectives, rather than just automatic responses to stimuli.
