Human Growth and Development CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is the type of learning that results from an individual's direct experience with the environment?

1. Classical conditioning

2. Observational learning

3. Operant conditioning

4. Cognitive learning

The correct answer is: Observational learning

Observational learning is the type of learning that results from an individual's direct experience with the environment. This type of learning involves observing and imitating the behavior of others in the environment. The other options, classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and cognitive learning, all involve some type of training or conditioning, rather than direct experience with the environment. Classical conditioning focuses on the association between two stimuli, whereas operant conditioning involves changing behavior through reinforcements and punishments. Cognitive learning involves the mental processes of understanding, storing, and applying information rather than direct experience. In contrast, observational learning is based on direct observation and imitation of others in the environment, without the need for conditioning or mental processes. Therefore, it is the most appropriate option for the type of learning described in the question.