| Reviewed: |
Mar 11, 2012 by Psychology |
| Overview: |
This learning object is an interactive, digital game that simulates Ivan Pavlov's classical conditioning experiment with dogs. A description of Ivan Pavlov’s work and the main concepts involved in classical conditioning also are provided. The simulation and readings serve as an introduction to classical conditioning and are particularly appropriate for students who are learning about this subject for the first time. |
| Learning Goals: |
Through participating in the interactive simulation and reviewing the readings included with the simulation, students will learn (about):
• The basic terms and processes associated with classical conditioning.
• How to associate a neutral stimulus with a conditioned stimulus to produce a conditioned response.
• Different types of reflexes.
• Modern-day therapeutic applications for classical conditioning.
• Pavlov’s Nobel Prize winning research. |
| Target Student Population: |
This simulation is appropriate for both high school and undergraduate courses in psychology (i.e., appropriate for students who are new to basic classical conditioning principles). |
| Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills: |
Students would most likely benefit from this exercise if they have already had a basic overview of classical conditioning. The website provides a brief description of classical conditioning, but does not go into depth about the processes. |
| Type of Material: |
• Simulation with corresponding reference material. |
| Recommended Uses: |
• This simulation could be assigned as an out-of-class activity or could be used in class to demonstrate classical conditioning.
• This is a basic primer that would be most appropriate AFTER one has a brief introduction to classical conditioning. |
| Technical Requirements: |
• Requires Adobe Flash Player to access content materials and to play the interactive game.
• Successfully tested with a PC running Windows 7 and Adobe Flash Player 11.
• Speakers/sound also required. |
