Introduction to Learning and Behavior - Softcover

Powell, Russell A.; Symbaluk, Diane G.; MacDonald, Suzanne E.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0534634516 ISBN 13: 9780534634513

Publisher: Wadsworth Publishing, 2004

Synopsis

Designed to apply learning theory and principles to the presentation of learning, this text shows how learning principles work in both animals and people. Throughout the book, the authors show how the study of learning helps solve practical problems, such as improving study skills, improving relationships, raising children, and effectively stopping smoking. This book is both solidly based in research and engaging for the student. To help ensure that students understand the materials, the authors strategically include multiple opportunities for review and self-testing within the text.

About this title

About the Author

Dr. Russell Powell earned his Ph.D. in psychology under the late Frank Epling and David Pierce at the University of Alberta. As a long-standing faculty member at MacEwan University in Edmonton, Alberta, he has taught classes in learning and behavior for over 30 years using a variety of behaviorally inspired formats. He has published and conducted research in a wide range of areas, including operant conditioning, social psychology, sleep and dreams (especially nightmares), self-regulation, and history of psychology. Most recently, he helped identify the individual believed to have been Little Albert, the infant in whom Watson and Rayner (1920) attempted to condition a phobia of furry animals (American Psychologist; Powell, Digdon, Harris, and Smithson, 2014).

Review

"This textbook is far and away the best textbook for undergraduates taking their first course in the psychology of learning. Terms are introduced carefully, and the language and jargon is held to a level that is not daunting to introductory-level students. Copious figures, diagrams, and study aids such as short quizzes facilitate understanding. My students have consistently reported that they like this textbook, which has NEVER happened with any other learning textbook that I have used."

"This is a fantastic text for independent learning. Students have told me that they find themselves wanting to read beyond the pages that I have assigned! This book is the most student-friendly textbook that I could find in my search for an appropriate text for my course."

"In the past, students particularly reacted positively toward the Advice to the Lovelorn columns. They are very creative ways of emphasizing the applied nature of learning theory that students can readily relate to their own personal lives. It allows students to see the learning theory explanations of their own behaviors. I like the nature of the Quick Quizzes interspersed throughout the chapter as fill-in-the-blank questions. ...The Concept Review provides an excellent and quick glossary of terms for students and the And Furthermore sections are excellent expansions, applications and interesting anecdotes about the theories and theorists. The writing style and pedagogical features interspersed throughout the chapter made learning about learning fun for the students!"

"I have very much enjoyed this textbook for several reasons. First, it is extremely easy to read. The content in each chapter is pertinent and concise. Second, there are many tools available to the students that are useful in reviewing the material. I have found the Quick Quizzes and the Concept Reviews very helpful as I review the information. Also, I have used the website in conjunction with the textbook which enhances my understanding of the material." "In addition, the textbook is geared for college students. For example, the concepts in Dr. Dee are relevant and applicable to the life of a student. Dr. Dee is a great tool to demonstrate the practical application of the principles taught in the book."

Edition details

• Publisher: Wadsworth Publishing
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 0534634516
• ISBN 13: 9780534634513
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 547