associative learning

the process of acquiring new and enduring information via the formation of bonds or connections between elements. In different types of associationistic learning theories, these associated elements may be stimulus and response, mental representations of events, or elements in neural networks. Historically, the associationistic theories of Clark L. Hull and Kenneth W. Spence are contrasted with the nonassociative and cognitive theory of Edward C. Tolman. Compare nonassociative learning.

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Psychology term of the day

February 20th 2025

dual representation

the ability to comprehend an object simultaneously as the object itself and as a representation of something else. For example, a photograph of a person can be represented both as the print itself and as the person it depicts. Also called dual encoding; dual orientation.