(PDF)Learning and Behavior: Active Learning Edition 8th Edition

by Paul Chance, Ellen Furlong

Key Highlights

  • 📚 Comprehensive coverage of fundamental learning and behavior principles.
  • 💡 Features an engaging 'Active Learning Edition' format to boost understanding.
  • ✍️ Updated 8th Edition from leading authors in psychology education.

Description

Ready to really understand how we learn and why we behave the way we do? Dive into Learning and Behavior: Active Learning Edition (8th Edition) by Paul Chance and Ellen Furlong. This isn't just another dry textbook; it's an engaging guide designed to make the science of behavior stick!

Who is this book for? This book is perfect for undergraduate psychology students trying to grasp core concepts, educators looking for effective teaching strategies rooted in learning principles, or anyone curious about the mechanics behind habit formation, training, and behavior modification. If you're studying psycology or just fascinated by why humans (and animals!) act the way they do, this is for you.

What problem does this book solve? Feeling lost in complex theories like classical and operant conditioning? This book breaks down these fundamental principles of learning and behavior into understandable pieces. It tackles the challenge of passive reading by integrating activities directly into the text – the 'Active Learning Edition' means you do things as you read, helping solidify your understanding. It help you bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.

What will you gain from reading it? By working through this text, you'll gain a solid foundation in behavior analysis and learning theory. You'll learn about everything from Pavlov's dogs to Skinner's boxes and beyond, understanding the nuances of reinforcement, punishment, extinction, and observational learining. More importantly, the active learning approach ensures you can actually apply these concepts, whether in analysing everyday behaviors, improving study habits, or understanding therapeutic approaches. This editionn helps you think critically about behavior.

Why is it worth reading? As the 8th edition, this book represents years of refinement and updated research in the field of learning and behavior. The unique Active Learning format makes studying less of a chore and more of an interactive experience, boosting retention and comprehension. Authored by experts Paul Chance and Ellen Furlong, it's a trusted resource in psychology education. Get clear explanations and practical insights you can use immediately. Download the PDF today and start actively learning about behavior!

FAQ

Is this book suitable for someone with no prior psychology knowledge?

Yes, it's designed as an introductory text often used in undergraduate courses. While challenging, it explains concepts clearly, making it accessible for motivated beginners interested in learning and behavoir.

What exactly does 'Active Learning Edition' mean? What kind of activities are included?

The Active Learning Edition integrates questions, exercises, and thought experiments directly into the text. Instead of just reading passively, you'll be prompted to recall information, apply concepts, analyze scenarios, and engage critically with the material as you go.

Does this book cover both human and animal learning?

Absolutly! Principles of learning often apply across species. The book covers foundational experiments (many involving animals) and discusses applications to both human behavior (like education, therapy) and animal training.

Is this the most current edition available?

This is the 8th edition. While publishers occasionally release newer versions, the 8th edition provides comprehensive and relatively up-to-date coverage of core learning principles. It's widely used in courses.

Can I use this PDF for self-study effectively?

Definitly! The active learning components make it particularly well-suited for self-study, as the built-in activites help reinforce learning and check your understanding even without an instructor.

What are the main topics covered in the book?

It covers key topics like the history of learning theory, classical conditioning (Pavlov), operant conditioning (Skinner), reinforcement schedules, punishment, extinction, observational learning (Bandura), generalization, discrimination, and applications in areas like education and clinical psychology.

Reader Reviews

★★★★★
PsychStudent101(Undergraduate Student)
This book saved my semester! The active learning parts really helped me understand conditioning. Much better than just reading endless pages. Highly reccomend for any psych major.
★★★★★
BehaviorNerd(Behavior Analyst in Training)
Excellent textbook covering the core principles thoroughly. The explanations are clear, and the examples are very helpful for applying concepts. A must-have reference.
★★★★
TeacherGal(High School Teacher)
Read this to better understand student behavior and learning in my classroom. Found it very insightful, especially the sections on reinforcement. Some parts are a bit dense, but the active learning questions help break it up.
★★★★★
DogTrainerDave(Animal Trainer)
Fantastic resource! The principles explained here are the bedrock of modern animal training. Clearly explains operant conditioning in a way that's easy to grasp and apply. Great book!
★★★★
CuriousLearner(Casual Reader)
Picked this up out of interest in how habits form. It's definitely a textbook, but surprisingly readable. Learned a lot about why we do what we do. The active learning parts kept me engaged.
★★★★★
SarahK_88(Psychology Graduate)
Used this for my learning course and it was excellent. Clear, comprehensive, and the active learning approach genuinely works. Still refer back to it sometimes.
★★★
MikeTheStudent(College Student)
It's okay. Covers the material well I guess, but I found the active learning stuff a bit tedious sometimes. Just wanted the facts. But it did help me pass the class.

About the Author

Paul Chance (late) was a respected psychologist and educator known for his clear writing and ability to make complex topics accessible. Ellen Furlong continues this legacy, bringing expertise in behavioral science and a passion for effective teaching methods. Together, their work on 'Learning and Behavior' has helped countless students grasp the core principles shaping the field.