CHSE Odisha Class 12 Education Solutions Chapter 7 Theories of Learning: Trial and Error Theory, and Laws of Learning

Odisha State Board CHSE Odisha Class 12 Education Solutions Chapter 7 Theories of Learning: Trial and Error Theory, and Laws of Learning Questions and Answers.

CHSE Odisha 12th Class Education Chapter 6 Question Answer Theories of Learning: Trial and Error Theory, and Laws of Learning

Group – A

Short type Questions with Answers
I. Answer with in Two/Three sentence :

Question 1.
Who was the chief proponent of the Trial and Error theory of learning?
Answer:
E.L. Thorndike (1874 – 1949) was the chief proponent of the Trial and Error theory of learning.

Question 2.
What was the subject of Thorndlke’s famous Puzzle Box Experiment?
Answer:
Thorndike’s Puzzle Box Experiment involved a hungry cat confined in a box, requiring it to pull a string to access food outside the box.

Question 3.
According to Thorndike, how did learning occur in the Puzzle Box Experiment?
Answer:
Thorndike concluded that learning in the Puzzle Box Experiment was the result of forming direct connections between stimuli and responses through trial and error.

Question 4.
What is the Law of Readiness in Thorndike’s Laws of Learning?
Answer:
The Law of Readiness states that learning occurs when there is a preparedness or action tendency to engage in the learning process.

Question 5.
Explain the Law of Exercise in Thorndike’s Laws of Learning.
Answer:
The Law of Exercise asserts that drill or practice enhances the efficiency and durability of learning, strengthening connections through repetition.

Question 6.
According to Thorndike, what does the Law of Effect state?
Answer:
The Law of Effect posits that actions leading to satisfaction strengthen connections, while dissatisfaction weakens or eliminates connections in the learning process.

Question 7.
What does the Law of Multiple Response propose in learning?
Answer:
The Law of Multiple Response suggests that organisms vary their responses until an appropriate behavior is discovered, emphasizing the importance of trying different approaches.

Question 8.
How does the Law of Set or Attitude influence learning?
Answer:
The Law of Set or Attitude highlights that an individual’s total attitude determines what actions will be satisfying or annoying, influencing the learning process.

Question 9.
What does the Law of Pre-potency of Elements indicate in learning?
Answer:
The Law of Pre-potency of Elements states that learners selectively react to essential elements in a situation while neglecting irrelevant features, contributing to insightful learning.

Question 10.
According to Thorndike, what is the Law of Response by Analogy?
Answer:
The Law of Response by Analogy suggests that individuals use past experiences to learn new situations, relying on common elements from similar past experiences.

Question 11.
What does the Law of Associative Shifting propose in learning?
Answer:
The Law of Associative Shifting suggests that a learner can associate a response they are capable of with any situation to which they are sensitive, allowing for versatile learning.

Question 12.
In Thorndike’s Puzzle Box Experiment, what reduced as the cat’s repetitions increased?
Answer:
Thorndike observed that errors reduced as the cat’s repetitions increased in the Puzzle Box Experiment, indicating gradual improvement in performance.

Question 13.
How did Thorndike illustrate the Law of Associative Shifting with a cat?
Answer:
Thorndike illustrated the Law of Associative Shifting by teaching a cat to stand up at a command, associating the response with the
presentation of a fish.

Question 14.
According to Thorndike, what is the significance of satisfaction in the Law of Effect ? Answer: The Law of Effect emphasizes that responses leading to satisfaction are learned and selected, contributing to the consolidation and strengthening of connections.

Question 15.
What role does intensity play in Thorndike’s Law of Effect?
Answer:
Intensity is an important condition of the Law of Effect, as greater satisfaction leads to stronger motives to learn, according to Thorndike’s learning theory.

II. Answer with in Five/Six sentence:

Question 1.
Box Experiment. In this experiment, a hungry cat had to figure out how to pull a string to access food. Thorndike observed gradual improvement over trials, leading him to conclude that learning involves forming direct connections between stimuli and responses.

Question 2.
Describe Thorndike’s Puzzle Box Experiment and its implications for learning.
Answer:
Thorndike’s Puzzle Box Experiment involved placing a hungry cat in a box with food outside. The cat had to pull a string to open the box and access the food. Through repeated trials, Thorndike observed a decrease in errors, indicating a gradual learning process. This experiment laid the foundation for the understanding of connectionism and the role of trial and error in learning.

Question 3.
What are Thorndike’s Laws of Learning, and how do they explain the learning process?
Answer:
Thorndike proposed three primary laws of learning: Law of Readiness, Law of Exercise, and Law of Effect. The Law of Readiness emphasizes the importance of preparedness for learning. The Law of Exercise underscores the role of practice in strengthening connections. The Law of Effect suggests that satisfying experiences reinforce learning. These laws, along with five subordinate laws, provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the dynamics of the learning process.

Question 4.
Explain the Law of Readiness and its significance in the context of learning.
Answer:
The Law of Readiness, a fundamental concept in Thorndike’s theory, asserts that learning occurs when an individual is mentally prepared or has an action tendency. It highlights the necessity for a learner to be ready and willing to engage in the learning process. For instance, a typist must be mentally prepared to start learning typing for effective progress to take place.

Question 5.
How does the Law of Exercise contribute to the efficiency and durability of learning, according to Thorndike?
Answer:
The Law of Exercise posits that practice or drill enhances the efficiency and durability of learning. Thorndike’s S-R Bond Theory suggests that connections are strengthened with repeated practice and weakened when practice is discontinued. Examples such as learning to drive a car or memorizing a poem illustrate how exercise and repetition play a crucial role in the learning process.

Question 6.
Elaborate on the Law of Effect and its implications for teaching.
Answer:
The Law of Effect states that actions leading to satisfaction strengthen connections, while dissatisfaction weakens them. In teaching, this implies that educators should create a positive and satisfying learning environment. The law emphasizes the importance of making learning enjoyable and aligning teaching methods with the tastes and interests of students to enhance motivation and effective learning.

Question 7.
What are the five subordinate laws mentioned by Thorndike, and how do they further explain the learning process?
Answer:
Thorndike’s five subordinate laws include the Law of Multiple Response, Law of Set or Attitude, Pre-potency of Elements, Law of Response by Analogy, and Law of Associative Shifting. These laws delve deeper into the learning process, addressing aspects like varying responses, the learner’s attitude, selective attention to relevant elements, utilizing past experiences, and associating responses with different situations, enriching the understanding of how individuals learn.

Group – B

Long Type Questions With Answers

Question 1.
Explore the Trial and Error Theory of learning and discuss its educational implications.
Answer:
Trial and Error Theory, a concept pioneered by psychologist E.L. Thorndike, is a method of learning where various responses are attempted until a successful solution is reached. In the realm of education, this theory holds profound implications for both students and educators, shaping the learning process and influencing pedagogical approaches.

• In essence, Trial and Error Theory posits that learning is an iterative process involving experimentation, refinement, and adaptation. This approach challenges the traditional notion of mistakes as failures and instead views them as essential steps toward understanding and mastery. From an educational standpoint, this theory prompts a shift in perspective towards a more dynamic and student-centric learning environment.

• One educational implication of Trial and Error Theory is the encouragement of active student engagement. By fostering an atmosphere where students feel free to explore different approaches and solutions, educators empower them to take ownership of their learning journey. This approach aligns with constructivist principles, emphasizing that knowledge is actively constructed by the learner through meaningful experiences and interactions.

• Furthermore, Trial and Error Theory underscores the importance of cultivating a growth mindset within students. In a growth mindset, individuals perceive challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and improvement rather than insurmountable obstacles. Integrating this mindset into educational practices promotes resilience, perseverance, and a positive attitude towards learning. Students learn to view errors not as setbacks but as stepping stones towards mastery.

• Practical applications of Trial and Error Theory can be found in project-based learning and problem-solving activities. Assignments that require students to tackle real-world problems encourage them to experiment with different strategies, assess outcomes, and refine their approaches based on feedback. This not only enhances critical thinking skills but also prepares students for the uncertainties and complexities they may encounter in their future endeavors.

• Moreover, Trial and Error Theory emphasizes the importance of providing constructive feedback. In an educational setting, effective feedback serves as a guide for students to reflect on their attempts, understand where improvements can be made, and refine their strategies accordingly. Teachers play a crucial role in creating a supportive feedback loop that encourages continuous learning and improvement.

• The theory also advocates for a flexible and adaptive curriculum. Recognizing that students learn at different paces and through various approaches, educators can tailor their teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles. This individualized approach aligns with the idea that each student may take different paths to understanding and mastery, embracing the diversity of thought and learning within a classroom.

• Trial and Error Theory also highlights the importance of promoting a positive and inclusive learning environment. When students feel encouraged to experiment without fear of judgment, they are more likely to take intellectual risks and explore innovative solutions. This fosters a sense of creativity and curiosity, essential qualities for lifelong learners.

• In conclusion, Trial and Error Theory of learning revolutionizes the educational landscape by challenging traditional notions of success and failure. By promoting an active, student-centric approach, cultivating a growth mindset, integrating practical applications, emphasizing constructive feedback, supporting adaptability in curriculum design, and fostering a positive learning environment, this theory offers a holistic framework for a dynamic and effective educational experience. Embracing Trial and Error Theory not only equips students with essential skills for the future but also nurtures a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.

Question 2.
What are the foundational principles Mid bases of the Trial and Error Theory of learning, as proposed by E.L. Thorndike? Provide a comprehensive explanation of the key elements that form the basis of this theory.
Answer:
E.L. Thorndike’s Trial and Error Theory of learning is anchored in several foundational principles that offer insights into the dynamic process of acquiring knowledge and skills. These key dements form the basis of the theory, providing a comprehensive understanding of how individuals learn through repeated experiences and associations.

Connectionism : At the heart of Thorndike’s theory lies the principle of connectionism. He proposed that learning is the establishment of bonds or connections between stimuli and responses. In essence, individuals form associations between specific situations and the corresponding actions or responses. This connectionist perspective suggests that learning involves creating direct links between stimuli in the environment and the appropriate behavioral responses.

Law of Effect : The Law of Effect is a fundamental principle that underscores the jonsequences of behavior in the learning process. According to Thorndike, behaviors followed by satisfaction or positive outcomes are strengthened, while those followed by dissatisfaction or negative consequences are weakened. This law highlights the importance of reinforcement in shaping and modifying behavior. Positive outcomes serve as a catalyst for the strengthening of connections, contributing to the overall learning experience.

Law of Readiness : Thorndike introduced the Law of Readiness as a crucial component of his theory. This principle emphasizes that effective learning occurs when individuals are in a state of readiness or preparedness for learning. Readiness refers to a mental and emotional state where the learner is receptive and inclined to engage in the learning process. Learning is more likely to be successful when the individual is mentally prepared to establish connections between stimuli and responses.

Law of Exercise: The Law of Exercise highlights the significance of practice and repetition in the learning process. Thorndike argued that drill or exercise contributes to the efficiency and durability of learning. Through repeated practice, the connections formed between stimuli and responses are strengthened. Conversely, discontinuing practice weakens these connections. This principle aligns with the idea that regular and deliberate practice enhances the robustness of learned associations.

Law of Effect: Another key principle is the Law of Effect, which posits that the steps leading to satisfaction strengthen the bonds or connections formed during learning. Satisfying experiences contribute to the consolidation and reinforcement of these Connections. On the other hand, experiences associated with dissatisfaction, annoyance, or pain lead to the weakening or stamping out of the connections. This law underscores the importance of positive reinforcement in the learning process.

Understanding these foundational principles provides a comprehensive framework for grasping the Trial and Error Theory of learning. The theory’s emphasis on connectionism, the impact of consequences, the role of readiness, and the significance of exercise collectively illuminate how individuals navigate the learning process through repeated experiences and the formation of associations between stimuli and responses. Thorndike’s insights continue to influence our understanding of learning dynamics and have implications for educational practices and theories.

Group – C

Objective type Questions with Answers
II. Multiple Choice Questions with Answers :

Question 1.
Who was the chief exponent of the theory of connectionism or trial and error?
(i) B.F. Skinner
(ii) Ivan Pavlov
(iii) E.L. Thorndike
(iv) John Watson
Answer:
(iii) E.L. Thorndike

Question 2.
What is the central idea behind trial and error learning?
(i) Learning through observation
(ii) Learning through imitation
(iii) Learning through various attempts and discarding incorrect responses
(iv) Learning through punishment
Answer:
(iii) Learning through various attempts and discarding incorrect responses

Question 3.
In Thorndike’s Puzzle Box Experiment, what did the hungry cat have to do to get to the food outside the box?
(i) Press a lever
(ii) Solve a puzzle
(iii) Pull a string
(iv) Push a button
Answer:
(iii) Pull a string

Question 4.
What did Thorndike observe as the repetition of trials increased in the Puzzle Box Experiment?
(i) Decrease in errors
(ii) Increase in errors
(iii) Random behavior
(iv) No change in behavior
Answer:
(i) Decrease in errors

Question 5.
According to Thorndike, what does learning involve in terms of stimulus and response?
(i) Formation of connections between stimulus and response
(ii) Isolation of stimulus from response
(iii) Random association of stimulus and response
(iv) Ignoring the role of stimulus in learning
Answer:
(i) Formation of connections between stimulus and response

Question 6.
What is the first primary law of learning according to Thorndike?
(i) Law of Effect
(ii) Law of Readiness
(iii) Law of Exercise
(iv) Law of Multiple Response
Answer:
(ii) Law of Readiness

Question 7.
What does the Law of Exercise suggest about learning?
(i) Learning occurs through satisfaction
(ii) Learning involves set or attitude
(iii) Drill or practice helps increase efficiency and durability
(iv) Learning is guided by response to the essential elements
Answer:
(iii) Drill or practice helps increase efficiency and durability

Question 8.
According to the Law of Effect, what happens when a trial leads to satisfaction?
(i) The connection weakens
(ii) The bond or connection is stamped in
(iii) Learning is not affected
(iv) The connection becomes irrelevant
Answer:
(ii) The bond or connection is stamped in

Question 9.
Which law emphasizes the importance of varying responses until an appropriate behavior is discovered?
(i) Law of Set or Attitude
(ii) Law of Multiple Response
(iii) Pre-potency of Elements
(iv) Law of Associative Shifting
Answer:
(ii) Law of Multiple Response

Question 10.
What is the Law of Set or Attitude concerned with in the context of learning?
(i) Varying responses
(ii) Selectivity in reacting to essential elements
(iii) Preparing oneself for action
(iv) Utilizing old experiences in a new situation
Answer:
(iii) Preparing oneself for action

Question 11.
According to the Law of Associative Shifting, what does the learner do when a response is associated with any other situation to which they are sensitive?
(i) Reinforce the existing connection
(ii) Form a new connection
(iii) Shift the response associated with any other situation
(iv) Ignore the response
Answer:
(iii) Shift the response associated with any other situation

Question 12.
Which law suggests that the learner reacts selectively to important elements in a situation?
(i) Law of Multiple Response
(ii) Law of Set or Attitude
(iii) Pre-potency of Elements
(iv) Law of Response by Analogy
Answer:
(iii) Pre-potency of Elements

Question 13.
How does the Law of Readiness describe the role of preparation in learning?
(i) Learning takes place when an action tendency is aroused through preparatory adjustment
(ii) Learning is automatic and does not require preparation
(iii) Learning is solely based on satisfaction
(iv) Learning is a result of random movements
Answer:
(i) Learning takes place when an action tendency is aroused through preparatory adjustment

Question 14.
What does the Law of Response by Analogy suggest about learning in a new situation?
(i) Learners should ignore past experiences
(ii) Common elements from old experiences are used in learning
(iii) Learners should avoid any association with past experiences
(iv) Learning is purely based on trial and error
Answer:
(ii) Common elements from old experiences are used in learning

Question 15.
How does the Law of Associative Shifting relate to teaching a cat to stand up at a command?
(i) Reinforcing the existing response
(ii) Shifting the response associated with a command
(iii) Ignoring the command
(iv) Repeating the command without any change
Answer:
(ii) Shifting the response associated with a command

II. Fill in the blanks :

Question 1.
Trial and Error is a method of learning in which various responses are ______ until a solution is attained.
Answer:
tentatively tried and some discarded

Question 2.
E.L. Thorndike was the chief exponent of the theory of connectionism or ______ .
Answer:
trial and error

Question 3.
Thorndike conducted the Stimulus-Response (S-R) theory experiment with the help of ______.
Answer:
animals

Question 4.
According to Thorndike, all learning is the formation of bonds or connections between ______.
Answer:
stimulus and response

Question 5.
In Thorndike’s Puzzle Box Experiment, the hungry cat had to pull a ______ to come out of the box.
Answer:
string

Question 6.
Thorndike concluded that the learning of the cat in the puzzle box can be explained in terms of the formation of direct ______ between stimulus and response.
Answer:
connectionism

Question 7.
The first primary law of learning according to Thorndike is the ‘Law of ______.’
Answer:
Readiness

Question 8.
Readiness means a preparation of ______.
Answer:
action

Question 9.
The second law of learning is the ‘Law of’ ______ which states that drill or practice helps in increasing efficiency and durability of learning.
Answer:
Exercise

Question 10.
According to Thorndike’s S-R Bond Theory, connections are strengthened with ______ or practice.
Answer:
drill

Question 11.
The third law of learning is the ‘Law of’ where trial or steps leading to satisfaction stamp in the bond or connection.
Answer:
Effect

Question 12.
Satisfying states lead to consolidation and ______ of the connection.
Answer:
strengthening

Question 13.
Thorndike refers to five subordinate laws, one of which is the ‘Law of ______ Response.’
Answer:
Multiple

Question 14.
Learning is guided by a total set or attitude of the organism, which determines not only what the person will do but what will ______ or annoy him.
Answer:
satisfy

Question 15.
According to the ‘Law of Pre-potency of Elements,’ the learner reacts selectively to the ______ in the situation.
Answer:
important or essential

Question 16.
The Law of Response by Analogy suggests that the individual makes use of old experiences or acquisitions while learning a new ______.
Answer:
situation

Question 17.
According to the Law of Associative Shifting, a learner may get a response associated with any other ______ to which he is sensitive.
Answer:
situation

Question 18.
Thorndike illustrated the Law of Associative Shifting by teaching a cat to ______ at a command.
Answer:
stand up

Question 19.
The Law of Associative Shifting involves associating a response with any other situation to which the learner is ______.
Answer:
sensitive

Question 20.
Thorndike’s Laws of Learning provide insights into the ______ of learning and the factors that influence it.
Answer:
process

III. Correct the Sentences :

Question 1.
Trial and Error is a method of learning in which various responses are tentatively tried and some discarded until a solution is attained.
Answer:
Trial and Error is a learning method in which various responses are tentatively tried, and some are discarded until a solution is attained.

Question 2.
He was an American Psychologist who conducted Stimulus – Response(S-R) theory experiment with the help of animals.
Answer:
He was an American Psychologist who conducted a Stimulus-Response (S-R) theory experiment with the help of animals.

Question 3.
The cat in the box made several random movements of jumping, dashing, and running to get out of the box.
Answer:
The cat in the box made several random movements, such as jumping, dashing, and running, to get out of the box’

Question 4.
The cat at last succeeded in pulling the string.
Answer:
The cat finally succeeded in pulling the strmg.

Question 5.
He concluded that learning of cat in the puzzle box can be explained in term of formation-of direct connectionism between stimulus and response.
Answer:
He concluded that the learning of the cat in the puzzle box can be explained in terms of the formation of direct connectionism between stimulus and response.

Question 6.
The repetition increases the error also reduced i.e., Thorndike’s cat showed slow, gradual and continuous improvement in performance over successive trials.
Answer:
The repetition increases; the error also reduced, i.e., Thorndike’s cat showed slow, gradual, and continuous improvement in performance over successive trials.

Question 7.
Law of Readiness means that learning takes place when an action tendency is aroused through preparatory adjustment, set, or attitude.
Answer:
The Law of Readiness means that learning takes place when an action tendency is aroused through preparatory adjustment, set, or attitude.

Question 8.
Thorndike also refer to five subordinate laws which further help to explain the learning . process.
Answer:
Thorndike also referred to five subordinate laws that further help to explain the learning process.

Question 9.
According to it the organism varies or changes its response till an appropriate behaviour is hit upon.
Answer:
According to it, the organism varies or changes its response until an appropriate behavior is hit upon.

Question 10.
Learning is guided by a total set or attitude of the organism, which determines not only what the person will do but what will satisfy or annoy him.
Answer:
Learning is guided by a total set or attitude of the organism, which determines not only what the person will do but also what will satisfy or annoy him.

Question 11.
In this law of pre-potency of elements, Thorndike is really anticipating insight in learning which was more emphasized by the Gestaltions.
Answer:
In this law of pre-potency of elements, Thorndike is really anticipating insight in learning, which was more emphasized by the Gestalt psychologists.

Question 12.
According to this law, the individual makes use of old experiences or acquisitions while learning a new situation.
Answer:
According to this law, the individual makes use of old experiences or acquisitions while learning a new situation.

Question 13.
According to this law we may get a response, of which a learner is capable, associated with any other situation to which he is sensitive.
Answer:
According to this law, we may get a response of which a learner is capable, associated with any other situation to which he is sensitive.

Question 14.
Thorndike illustrated this by the act of teaching a cat to stand up at a command.
Answer:
Thorndike illustrated this by teaching a cat to stand up on command.

III. Answer the following questions in one word :

Question 1.
Who was the chief proponent of the Trial and Error Theory?
Answer:
E.L. Thorndike.

Question 2.
What is Trial and Error learning?
Answer:
A method where various responses are attempted until a solution is found.

Question 3.
Describe Thorndike’s Puzzle Box Experiment briefly.
Answer:
A hungry cat in a box had to pull a string to access food, exhibiting gradual improvement in performance over trials.

Question 4.
According to Thorndike, what is learning the formation of?
Answer:
Bonds or connections between stimulus and response.

Question 5.
What does the Law of Readiness emphasize in learning?
Answer:
The importance of being prepared or having a readiness to learn.

Question 6.
What does the Law of Exercise state in learning?
Answer:
Drill or practice enhances the efficiency and durability of learning.

Question 7.
What does the Law of Effect suggest in terms of learning?
Answer:
Responses leading to satisfactibn strengthen connections, while dissatisfaction weakens them.

Question 8.
What does the Law of Multiple Response propose?
Answer:
The organism Varies its responses until an appropriate behavior is discovered.

Question 9.
What is the focus of the Law of Set or Attitude in learning?
Answer:
The total set or attitude of the organism, guiding actions and determining satisfaction.

Question 10.
What does the Law of Pre-potency of Elements emphasize in learning?
Answer:
The learner reacts selectively to essential elements, neglecting irrelevant ones.

Question 11.
According to Thorndike, what does the Law of Response by Analogy suggest?
Answer:
Learners use old experiences while learning new situations, drawing on common elements.

Question 12.
What is the Law of Associative Shifting in learning?
Answer:
Getting a response associated with any situation to which the learner is sensitive.

Question 13.
How did Thorndike illustrate the Law of Associative Shifting?
Answer:
By teaching a cat to stand up at a command, initially using a fish as a stimulus.

Question 14.
What does the Law of Readiness state is necessary for learning to occur?
Answer:
A state of preparedness or action tendency.

Question 15.
What does Thorndike’s Puzzle Box Experiment reveal about learning?
Answer:
Learning involves slow, gradual, and continuous improvement in performance over successive trials.

Introduction

Trial and Error is a method of learning in which various responses are tentatively tried and some discarded until a solution is attained. E.L.Thomdike (1874-1949) was the chief exponent of the theory of connectionism or trial and error. He was an American Psychologist who conducted Stimulus – Response(S-R) theory experiment with the help of animals. Thorndike was the first to study the subject of learning systematically using standardized procedure and apparatus. All learning, according to Thorndike is the formation of bonds or connections between stimulus-response.

The Puzzle Box Experiment:
Thorndike’s Experiment on cat in the puzzle is widely known and often quoted in psychology of learning. The experimental set up was very simple. A hungry cat was confined in a puzzle box and outside the box a dish of food was kept. The cat, in the box had to pull a string to come out of the box. The cat in the box made several random movements of jumping, dashing and running to get out of the box. The cat at last succeeded in pulling the string. The door of the puzzle box opened, the cat came out and ate the food.

He promptly put the cat to next trial. The cat again gave a lot of frantic behaviour but it soon succeeded in pulling the string. It repeated for several time, Thorndike noticed as the repetition increases the error also reduced i.e., Thorndike’s cat showed slow, gradual and continuous improvement in performance over successive trials. He concluded that learning of cat in the puzzle box can be explained in term of formation of direct connectionism between stimulus and response.

Thorndike’s Laws of Learning :
1. Law of Readiness : First primary law of learning, according to him, is the ‘Law of Readiness’ or the ‘Law of Action Tendency’, which means that learning takes place when an action tendency is aroused through preparatory adjustment, set or attitude. Readiness means a preparation of action. If one is not prepared to learn, learning cannot be automatically instilled in him, for example, unless the typist, in order to learn typing prepares himself to start, he would not make much progress in a lethargic & unprepared manner.

2. Law of Exercise : The second law of learning is the ‘Law of Exercise’, which means that drill or practice helps in increasing efficiency and durability of learning and according to Throndike’s S-R Bond Theory, the connections are strengthened with trail or practice and the connections are weakened when trial or practice is discontinued. The ‘law of exercise’, therefore, is also understood as the Taw of use and disuse’ in which case connections or bonds made in the brain cortex are weakened or loosened. Many examples of this case are found in case of human learning. Learning to drive a motor-car, typewriting, singing or memorizing a poem or a mathematical table, and music etc. need exercise and repetition of various movements and actions many times.

3. Law of Effect: The third law is the ‘Law of Effect’, according to which the trial or steps leading to satisfaction stamps in the bond or connection. Satisfying states lead to consolidation and strengthening of the connection, whereas dis-satisfaction, annoyance or pain lead to the weakening or stamping out of the connection. In fact, the Taw of effect’ signifies that if the response satisfy the subject, they are learnt and selected, while those which are not satisfying are eliminated. Teaching, therefore, must be pleasing. The educator must obey the tastes and interests of his pupils. In other words, greater the satisfaction stronger will be the motive to learn. Thus, intensity is an important condition of Taw of effect’. Besides these three basic laws, Throndike also refer to five subordinate laws which further help to explain the learning process. These are

4. Law of Multiple Response : According to it the organism varies or changes its response till an appropriate behaviour is hit upon. Without varying the responses, the correspondence for the solution might never be elicited. If the individual wants to solve a puzzle, he is to try in different ways rather than mechanically persisting in the same way. Throndike’s cat in the puzzle box moved about and tried many ways to come out till finally it hit the latch with her paw which opened the door and it jumped out.

5. The Law of Set or Attitude : Learning is guided by a total set or attitude of the organism, which determines not only what the person will do but what will satisfy or annoy him. For instance, unless the cricketer sets himself to make a century, he will not be able to score more runs. A student, similarly, unless he sets to get first position and has the attitude of being at the top, would while away the time and would ndt learn much. Hence, learning is affected more in the individual if he is set to learn more or to excel.

6. Pre- potency of Elements : According to this law, the learner reacts selectively to the important or essential in the situation and neglects the other features or elements which may be irrelevant or non- essential. The ability to deal with the essential or the relevant part of the situation, makes analytical and insightful learning possible. In this law of pre-potency of elements, Thorndike is really anticipating insight in learning which was more emphasized by the Gestaltions.

7. Law of Response by Analogy : According to this law, the individual makes use of old experiences or acquisitions while learning a new situation. There is a tendency to utilise common elements in the new situation as existed in a similar past situation. The learning of driving a car, for instance, is facilitated by the earlier acquired skill of driving a motor cycle or even riding a bicycle because the perspective or maintaining a balance and controlling the handle helps in stearing the car.

8. The Law of Associative Shifting : According to this law we may get an response, of which a learner is capable, associated with any other situation to which he is sensitive. Thorndike illustrated this by the act of teaching a cat to stand up at a command. A fish was dangled before the cat while he said ‘stand up’. After a number trails by presenting the fish after uttering the command ‘stand up’, he later ousted the fish and the over all command of ‘stand up’ was found sufficient to evoke the response in the cat by standing up or her hind legs.