Odisha State Board CHSE Odisha Class 12 Education Solutions Chapter 9 Insightful and Observational Learning Questions and Answers.
CHSE Odisha 12th Class Education Chapter 9 Question Answer Insightful and Observational Learning
Group – A
Short type Questions with Answers
I. Answer with in Two/Three sentence :
Question 1.
Who is considered the father of Gestalt Theory?
Answer:
Max Wertheimer is considered the father of Gestalt Theory, which focuses on understanding psychological phenomena as organized wholes.
Question 2.
What does the term ‘gestalt’ mean in the context of Gestalt Theory?
Answer:
In the context of Gestalt Theory, ‘gestalt’ refers to a whole, a total composition, where an individual perceives and learns an object as a single entity rather than in isolated ports.
Question 3.
Who refined and developed ‘Wertheimer ’s gestalt theory?
Answer:
Kurt Koffka and Wolfgang Kohler arc psychologists who refined and further developed Max Wertheimer’s gestalt theory.
Question 4.
What is the fundamental Idea encapsulated In the gestalt theory?
Answer:
The fundamental idea of gestalt theory is expressed in the statement: ‘The whole is greater than the sum of its ports.’ emphasizing the importance of perceiving and learning objects a unified wholes.
Question 5.
When was Wolfgang Kohler born, and where did he conduct most of his significant research?
Answer:
Wolfgang Kohler was born on 21st January 1887 in Reval (now Tallinn). Gosernurale of Estonia. Russian Empirc He conducted significant research during his time at the Psychological Institute in Frankfurt, Germany.
Question 6.
What animal did Wolfgang Kohler use In his experiments to establish the existence of Insight?
Answer:
Wolfgang Kohter conducted experiments on a chimpanzee named Sultan to establish the existence of insight, with the meat noteworthy experiments involving Sultan’s problem-solving abilities.
Question 7.
What are the four steps In Kobler’s esperlnient with Sultan, the chlnçirnree?
Answer:
Kohier’s experiments with Suban involved four steps: attempting to reach a banana with a stick, using two sticks to obtain the banana, climbing on a box to reach a hanging banana. and stacking boxes to access a banana placed at a higher level.
Question 8.
What are some factors influencing insightful learning, according to Gestalt Theory?
Answer:
Factors such as experience, intelligence, learning situations, initial efforts or tria] and error, and repetition and generalization are knowo to influence insightful learning according to Gestalt Theory.
Question 9.
What are some characteristics of insightful learning based on Kohler’s experiments?
Answer:
Insightful learning is sudden, alters perception, organizes old objects into new patterns, is relative to intellectual level, emphasizes understanding over manual dexterity, relies on previous experience, and is influenced by maturity.
Question 10.
What are some principles involved in insightful learning according to Gestalt psychologists?
Answer:
Gestalt psychologists proposed principles such as the law of figure-ground, law of pragnanz, law of continuity, law of similarity, and law of proximity, which are involved in perceptual organization or insightful learning.
Question 11.
What is observational learning?
Answer:
Observational learning is the process of learning by observing and imitating the actions of others.
Question 12.
How did Albert Bandura demonstrate observational learning in his “Bobo doll” experiment?
Answer:
Bandura showed kindergarten students films of individuals beating a “Bobo doll” with different consequences. Children imitated the behavior more when the model was rewarded or not criticized.
Question 13.
According to Bandura, what is the significance of attention in observational learning?
Answer:
Attention is the first step in observational learning. Learners need to pay attention to the observed behavior, and teachers play a crucial role in presenting information in an engaging and attractive manner.
Question 14.
What is the role of retention in observational learning?
Answer:
Retention is essential for imitating behavior. Learners need to retain the information, and clear, step-wise demonstrations, verbal instructions, repetition, and practice contribute to better retention.
Question 15.
Why is the production phase important in observational learning?
Answer:
Attention and retention alone are insufficient for reproduction or imitation of behavior. Learners require opportunities to practice and coaching to improve their performance.
Question 16.
How does motivation influence observational learning according to Bandura?
Answer:
Motivation is crucial in determining whether learners will demonstrate the observed
behavior. Reinforcement and encouragement play a significant role in motivating learners to practice and exhibit the desired skills.
Question 17.
What are the four major processes or elements of observational learning?
Answer:
The four elements are attention, retention, production, and motivation.
Question 18.
In what subjects can teachers effectively use observational learning?
Answer:
Observational learning is particularly effective in subjects like mathematics, science, geography, where concepts can be introduced with the help of observation.
Question 19.
Who can serve as effective models in observational learning, according to Bandura? Answer: Teachers themselves can be good models, and peers can also serve as effective models. Skilled individuals from the community can be utilized as learning resources.
Question 20.
Why is the selection of an appropriate model important in observational learning?
Answer:
The appropriateness of the model is crucial for success in observational learning. Teachers should carefully choose models to represent skills or behaviors, ensuring they align with the desired learning outcomes.
II. Answer with in Five/Six sentence :
Question 1.
Who are the key figures associated with Gestalt Theory, and what does the theory emphasize in terms of learning?
Answer:
Gestalt Theory was developed by Max Wertheimer and further refined by Kurt Koffka and Wolfgang Kohler. The theory emphasizes that individuals learn objects as wholes, comprehending them in their entirety rather than as isolated parts. The central idea is encapsulated in the phrase, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”
Question 2.
Provide a brief life sketch of Wolfgang Kohler, a prominent contributor to Gestalt Theory.
Answer:
Wolfgang Kohler, bom on January 21, 1887, in Estonia, was a key figure in Gestalt Theory. Raised in a scholarly environment, he developed interests in both science and the arts. After earning his Ph.D., he worked with Max Wertheimer and Kurt Koffka. Kohler’s notable experiments with chimpanzees, particularly Sultan, played a significant role in establishing the concept of insight in learning.
Question 3.
Detail Wolfgang Kohler’s experiments with Sultan the chimpanzee and their significance in understanding insightful learning.
Answer:
Kohler conducted experiments with Sultan in four stages, illustrating insight. Sultan, faced with challenges like reaching a banana, displayed sudden solutions that indicated problem-solving insight. These experiments highlighted the cognitive processes involved in learning, challenging behaviorism.
Question 4.
What are the factors influencing insightful learning, according to Wolfgang Kohler’s observations?
Answer:
Factors influencing insightful learning include past experiences, intelligence, the learning situation, initial efforts or trial and error, repetition and generalization. These elements contribute to the organism’s ability to react insightfully to various situations.
Question 5.
List and briefly explain the characteristics of learning by insight as observed in Kohler’s experiments.
Answer:
Learning by insight has specific characteristics: it is sudden, alters perception, organizes old objects in new patterns, is relative to intellectual level, values understanding over manual dexterity, relies on previous experience, and is influenced by maturity. Additionally, pieces essential for the solution must be present together for insight to occur.
Question 6.
What are the principles involved in perceptual organization or insightful learning, as proposed by Gestalt psychologists?
Answer:
Principles involved in insightful learning include the laws of figure-ground, pragnanz, continuity, similarity, and proximity. These laws describe how perceptual organization occurs, emphasizing that individuals perceive and learn based on the relationship and organization of stimuli.
Question 7.
Highlight the educational implications of Gestalt Theory and how it suggests modifications in teaching methods.
Answer:
Gestalt Theory has several educational implications, suggesting that subject matter should be presented as a whole before emphasizing individual parts. Syllabus organization should reflect unity, and motivation should be a central consideration. It advocates for goal-oriented learning, making learning an intelligent task requiring mental abilities. Teachers are encouraged to facilitate independent inquiry and discovery, moving away from traditional memorization towards understanding and creative thinking.
Question 8.
What is observational learning, and how does it differ from classical and operant conditioning?
Answer:
Observational learning is a cognitive process of acquiring new behaviors by watching and imitating others. In contrast to classical and operant conditioning, observational learning, as proposed by Albert Bandura, emphasizes the role of cognitive processes in the learning of behaviors. Unlike classical and operant conditioning, where the emphasis is on associations and reinforcements, observational learning highlights the importance of cognitive factors such as attention, retention, production, and motivation.
Question 9.
Explain the concept of Social Learning Theory and its key components according to Albert Bandura.
Answer:
Social Learning Theory, developed by Albert Bandura, posits that learning occurs in a social context through the observation of others’ behavior and its outcomes. It involves two main types of observational learning: direct observation, where individuals learn by directly observing a model, and indirect observation or vicarious learning, where learning occurs by observing or hearing about others’ experiences. The theory suggests that individuals learn not only from their own experiences but also by observing and imitating the behaviors of others in their social environment.
Question 10.
Provide an example of vicarious learning in everyday life and discuss its implications.
Answer:
Suppose you plan to visit the Northeastern states of India, and a friend who recently visited the region advises you to carry an umbrella or raincoat due to the unpredictable weather. In this scenario, the chances are high that you will heed your friend’s advice based on their experience. This type of learning, where you learn from others’ experiences indirectly, is an example of vicarious learning. The implications of vicarious learning highlight the role of observational experiences in shaping individual behavior and decision-making based on others’ experiences.
Question 11.
Discuss the Bobo doll experiment conducted by Albert Bandura and its significance in understanding observational learning.
Answer:
Albert Bandura and his colleagues conducted the Bobo doll experiment to investigate the role of observational and imitative learning in social behavior, particularly aggression. The experiment involved exposing children to aggressive and non-aggressive models through movies. The results demonstrated that children who witnessed aggressive behavior imitated it when given the opportunity, highlighting the impact of observation and imitation on learning. This landmark study provided valuable insights into the social learning process and the influence of modeling on behavior.
Question 12.
Elaborate on the key processes involved in observational learning according to Bandura.
Answer:
According to Bandura, observational learning involves four key processes: attention, retention, production, and motivation. Attention requires the observer to focus on the model, influenced by both the characteristics of the model and the observer. Retention involves remembering the observed behavior for future reproduction, relying on the observer’s ability to mentally represent the behavior. Production is the actual execution of the learned behavior, contingent upon the observer’s capability to perform it. Motivation is crucial, as an observed behavior is more likely to be performed when there is an appropriate motivation or reason to do so. These processes collectively contribute to the effectiveness of observational learning.
Question 13.
How did the Bobo doll experiment illustrate the principles of observational learning, and what implications did it have for the field of psychology?
Answer:
The Bobo doll experiment, conducted by Albert Bandura, involved exposing children to aggressive and non-aggressive models through movies. The results showed that children who observed aggressive behavior were more likely to imitate it, emphasizing the role of observation and imitation in learning. This experiment had significant implications for psychology by providing evidence for the importance of observational learning in shaping behavior. It highlighted the influence of modeling on the acquisition of social behaviors and contributed to the understanding of how individuals learn from their social environment.
Question 14.
In the context of observational learning, how does attention play a crucial role, and what factors influence an individual’s attention to a model ?
Answer:
Attention is a crucial process in observational learning, as individuals need to focus on a model to acquire new behaviors. The effectiveness of attention is influenced by both the characteristics of the model and the observer. Factors such as the model’s attractiveness, competence, and the perceived relevance of the behavior can impact attention. Additionally, individual characteristics, such as the observer’s level of interest and cognitive abilities, play a role in determining the degree of attention given to a model. Understanding these factors helps explain why certain behaviors are more likely to be learned through observation.
Question 15.
Explain the role of retention in observational learning and how an individual’s ability to rehearse and mentally represent observed behavior influences the learning process.
Answer:
Retention is a crucial aspect of observational learning, requiring individuals to remember the observed behavior for future reproduction. The ability to rehearse and mentally represent the behavior plays a significant role in this process. Individuals need to encode and store the information effectively to recall it later. Factors such as cognitive abilities, memory capacity, and the clarity of the observed behavior contribute to the retention process. A strong retention of observed behavior enhances the likelihood of successful reproduction in the future.
Question 16.
Discuss the significance of the production stage in observational learning and how the capability to perform the learned behavior influences its execution.
Answer:
The production stage in observational learning involves the actual execution of the learned behavior by the observer. The successful reproduction of the behavior depends on the observer’s capability to perform it. Factors such as physical abilities, skills, and previous experience contribute to the production process. If the observer possesses the necessary skills and abilities, the likelihood of accurately reproducing the observed behavior increases. The production stage emphasizes the practical aspect of learning, highlighting the importance of the observer’s ability to translate observational experiences into actionable behaviors.
Question 17.
Examine the role of motivation in observational learning and how the presence of appropriate motivation influences the likelihood of reproducing observed behavior. Answer: Motivation is a key factor in observational learning, determining whether an observed behavior will be reproduced or not. The observer is more likely to perform a learned behavior when there is an appropriate motivation or reason to do so. Motivation can be intrinsic, driven by personal goals or desires, or extrinsic, influenced by external factors such as rewards or consequences. Understanding the motivational aspect of observational learning provides insights into why certain behaviors are more likely to be adopted and how the reinforcement of observed behaviors contributes to the learning process.
Group – B
Long Type Questions With Answers
Question 1.
Explain Wolfgang Kohler’s experiments illustrating insightful learning, particularly focusing on the methodology and outcomes of the experiments with the chimpanzee Sultan.
Answer:
Wolfgang Kohler’s experiments with insightful learning, prominently featuring the chimpanzee Sultan, played a pivotal role in challenging prevailing behaviorist perspectives and advancing the understanding of cognitive processes in animals. Kohler conducted a series of experiments to investigate whether animals could demonstrate problem-solving abilities through sudden and insightful solutions rather than through gradual trial and error.
• In the first stage of the experiments, Sultan, the chimpanzee, was placed in a cage with a banana just out of its direct reach and a stick inside the cage. Despite numerous attempts to obtain the banana through conventional methods, Sultan failed and eventually sat down in despair. However, after some time, Sultan suddenly got up, lifted the stick, and used it to draw the banana toward itself. This unexpected and spontaneous use of the stick indicated a sudden insight into problem-solving rather than a gradual, learned response through repeated attempts.
• In the second stage, Kohler introduced two sticks that could be joined together inside the cage. The banana was strategically placed so that Sultan couldn’t reach it with a single stick. After numerous attempts, Sultan displayed another insightful solution by joining the two sticks together and successfully obtaining the banana. This demonstrated the chimpanzee’s ability to combine tools creatively to achieve a goal.
• The third stage involved hanging the banana from the roof of the cage at a height that Sultan couldn’t reach even by jumping. A box was introduced inside the cage. After several unsuccessful attempts, Sultan climbed on the box and secured the banana, showcasing another instance of insightful learning through the use of available resources.
• The final stage of the experiment presented Sultan with two boxes placed in the cage, and the banana was positioned at an even higher level. Initially, Sultan attempted to reach the banana by standing on one box, but after numerous failures, it ingeniously stacked one box upon the other and successfully obtained the banana. This particular stage highlighted not only the use of insight in problem-solving but also the ability to adapt and innovate by combining resources in a novel way.
• The outcomes of Kohler’s experiments with Sultan challenged the behaviorist notion that animal learning was solely a product of trial and error. Instead, the chimpanzee’s behaviors indicated a cognitive process involving sudden insight into problem-solving. These experiments significantly contributed to the understanding of animal cognition and learning, emphasizing the role of insight in adapting to challenges and finding creative solutions to problems. Kohler’s work laid the foundation for recognizing higher cognitive functions in animals, challenging behaviorism, and influencing future research in the field of comparative psychology.
Question 2.
What is insightful learning, and what are its educational implications?
Answer:
Insightful learning is a cognitive process characterized by the sudden and intuitive understanding of a problem or concept. It involves the ability to discern relationships, make connections, and arrive at solutions without the need for repeated trial-and-error attempts. Unlike incremental learning, which occurs gradually through repetition and reinforcement, insightful learning is marked by a flash of comprehension that leads to a deeper and more immediate understanding.
Educational implications of insightful learning are profound, shaping teaching methodologies and influencing the design of curricula. Here are key aspects of how insightful learning impacts education:
Promotion of Deep Understanding : Insightful learning emphasizes the importance of grasping underlying principles rather than memorizing facts. In the educational context, this implies a shift towards fostering a deeper understanding of subjects, encouraging students to explore the fundamental concepts that govern a particular field.
Encouragement of Critical Thinking : Insightful learning encourages critical thinking skills. Educators should design learning experiences that prompt students to analyze information, recognize patterns, and draw connections independently. This approach stimulates intellectual curiosity and a more nuanced engagement with the material.
Focus on Problem-Solving : Insightful learning highlights the value of problem-solving skills. Education should not only impart knowledge but also equip students with the ability to apply that knowledge in solving real-world problems. Classroom activities and assessments should incorporate opportunities for students to think creatively and find innovative solutions.
Application in Diverse Contexts : Recognizing that insightful understanding can be applied across various contexts, educational approaches should encourage students to transfer their knowledge. This involves creating scenarios where students can apply what they have learned in new and unfamiliar situations, enhancing their adaptability and versatility.
Support for Individualized Learning : Insightful learning recognizes that the process can be unique for each learner. Educational environments should accommodate different learning styles preferences, and paces. Teachers should employ strategies that cater to individual needs, fostering an environment where students can discover insights in ways that resonate with them.
Integration of Subjects : Insightful learning suggests that knowledge is interconnected. Curricula should integrate subjects, demonstrating the interrelationships between disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach enhances students’ ability to understand complex systems and see the relevance of one subject to another.
In conclusion, insightful learning challenges traditional models of education by emphasizing depth of understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Educators must adapt their methods to facilitate this type of learning, ensuring that students not only accumulate information but also develop the capacity for insightful comprehension and application of knowledge in various contexts.
Question 3.
Considering Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory and the process involved in observational learning, how does the concept of attention influence the effectiveness of learning through observation, and what factors contribute to an individual’s ability to focus on a model?
Answer:
Observational learning is one of the outcomes of Bhandura’s social cognitive theory of learning. In simpler terms, observational learning means “learning by observation or imitation”. Bhandura was of the view that if a person observe someone doing some act in a particular situation, s/he observe the actions and tries to imitate it when fall in similar situation.
Bhandura’s Experiment
Bhandura’s “Bobo doll” experiment is a classical example. In this experiment, he divided a class of kindergarten students into three groups and showed them three films of beating a toy called “Bobo doll” by three persons. In one film, the person was rewarded with some candy and praising words for beating the doll. In the second film, beating of doll by the person as criticized and in third film, there was neither any rew ard nor criticism for the bahaviour of the person. Later he left some children from all three groups alone in the room filled with toys including “Bobo doll”. He observed their behavior from the other side of a mirror wall. He observed that children from Group 1 and 3 imitated the behavior more as compared to the second group. He concluded that children imitate that behavior which they feel is good or being rewarded or praised.
Elements of Observational Learning
Attention: Bhandura was of the view that attention is the first step of observational learning. To learn anything, learner has to pay attention on what is being said or acted. In this step, a teacher’s role is also very important. As a teacher, you have to present the things in such a way that you can attract learners to pay attention. Clear, precise, simple and interesting presentation by teachers helps in observational learning. Teacher’s behavior towards learners is also an important factor here as a warm and welcoming gesture attracts learners more as compared to cold or rude one.
Retention: to imitate any behavior, it is important that learners should retain it as much as possible. If a teacher is explaining to learners to handle any apparatus in a chemistry laboratory, the steps demonstrated by the teacher should be clear, step wise and easily visible to learner so that they can retain it as such in their memory. Verbal instruction along with demonstration helps in better retention. Repetition and practice also helps in retention.
Production: Attention and retention is not enough to reproduce or imitate nay behavior. Many times, learners observe a behavior but they are not able to imitate it as such due to lack of practice or coaching. Bhandura was of the view that teachers should provide ample opportunities to learner to practice, or to coach them in improving their performance at desired level.
Motivation: A learner may learn something by imitation but it is not necessary that s/he practice it or show it. If there is motivation or reinforcement for a particular act/skill, learner will demonstrate it. Role of motivation and rewards is highly appreciated by Bhandura in learning. Desired skill/behavior needs to be reinforced and learner should be encouraged in right direction. Significance of Observational Learning
- As a teacher you can use observational learning in the subjects like mathematics, science, geography, etc. very effectively as in these subjects many concept are introduced with the help of observation.
- Observational learning is helpful in introduction of new behavior.
- Selection of model (i.e. the person or instrument) to represent the skill or behavior is very important. Appropriateness of model is the key of success in observational learning.
- Teachers himself/herself could be a good model. Many behavior/skills a learner learn through imitating his/her teachers.
- Peers can also be used as an effective model. Especially rewarding desired behavior of a learner can motivate other to imitate him/her.
- You can identify the models from community, who can be good learning resources for learners. For example, you can organize a visit of skilled person in painting/drawing/dancing to demonstrate his/her skill or you can arrange a visit of learner to his/her workplace.
- You can identify the people to whom most learners assume their models. Their good acts, movies, videos, etc. can be used in your class.
Group – C
Objective type Questions with Answers
I. Multiple Choice Questions with Answers:
Question 1.
Who is considered the father of Gestalt Theory?
(i) Kurt Koffka
(ii) Wolfgang Kohler
(iii) Max Wertheimer
(iv) Frederick
Answer:
(iii) Max Wertheimer
Question 2.
What does the term ‘Gestalt’ mean in the context of Gestalt Theory
(i) Collection of independent elements
(ii) Individual parts or has
(iii) A whole or total composition
(iv) Separate erotics
Answer:
(iii) A whole or total composition
Question 3.
When was Wolfgang Kohler born?
(i) 1887
(ii) 1905
(iii) 1935
(iv) 1890
Answer:
(i) 1887
Question 4.
In Kohler’s experiments, what was the name of the chimpanzee arrowed 7
(i) Max
(ii) Kurt
(iii) Wolfgang
(iv) Sultan
Answer:
(iv) Sultan
Question 5.
How many steps were there in Kohler’s experiment with Sukaa 7
(i) 2
(ii) 3
(iii) 4
(iv) 5
Answer:
(iii) 4
Question 6.
What is the primary characteristic of insightful learning, according to Kohler’s experiments?
(i) Gradual
(ii) Sudden
(iii) Repetitive
(iv) Predictable
Answer:
(ii) Sudden
Question 7.
What is the law that states every’ element is perceiv ed in the context of its background?
(i) Law of Proximity
(ii) Law of Figure-Ground
(iii) Law of Similarity
(iv) Law of Continuity
Answer:
(ii) Law of Figure-Ground
Question 8.
Which factor influences insightful learning by requiring the arrangement of necessary aspects for observation?
(i) Experience
(ii) Intelligence
(iii) Learning Situation
(iv) Initial Efforts
Answer:
(iii) Learning Situation
Question 9.
What is the educational implication of the Gestalt theory regarding subject matter presentation?
(i) Sequential presentation
(ii) Detailed emphasis on parts
(iii) Gestalt form presentation
(iv) Disconnected facts presentation
Answer:
(iii) Gestalt form presentation
Question 10.
According to the Gestalt theory, what does learning remove in the psychological field?
(i) Intelligence
(ii) Disequilibrium
(iii) Repetition
(iv) Trial and Error
Answer:
(ii) Disequilibrium
Question 11.
Which law of perceptual organization emphasizes that proximate or near-together things are learned easily?
(i) Law of Proximity
(ii) Law of Similarity
(iii) Law of Figure-Ground
(iv) Law of Continuity
Answer:
(i) Law of Proximity 1
Question 12.
What does Kohler ’s theory suggest is essential for insightful learning in certain circumstances?
(i) Physical strength
(ii) Repetition
(iii) Presence of necessary pieces together
(iv) Trial and Error
Answer:
(iii) Presence of necessary pieces together
Question 13.
What characteristic of insight does the theory associate with the intellectual level of individuals?
(i) Suddenness
(ii) Repetition
(iii) Alteration of perception
(iv) Relative to intellectual level
Answer:
(iv) Relative to intellectual level
Question 14.
Which law involves the perception of objects based on their continuity?
(i) Law of Continuity
(ii) Law of Proximity
(iii) Law of Similarity
(iv) Law of Closure
Answer:
(i) Law of Continuity
Question 15.
What educational principle does the Gestalt theory emphasize regarding the curriculum?
(i) Isolation of facts
(ii) Fragmented organization
(iii) Unity and cohesiveness
(iv) Mechanical memorization
Answer:
(iii) Unity and cohesiveness
II. Fill in the blanks:
Question 1.
Max Wertheimer is considered the father of _____ Theory.
Answer:
Gestalt
Question 2.
The term ‘gestalt’ means a whole, a total _____
Answer:
Composition
Question 3.
According to Gestalt Theory, an individual learns an object as a whole, not in _____ or bits.
Answer:
Parts
Question 4.
Kohler conducted experiments on a chimpanzee named _____.
Answer:
Sultan.
Question 5.
Kohier’s experiments with Sultan aimed to establish the existence of _____.
Answer:
Insight
Question 6.
Insightful learning has certain characteristics, and one of them is that it is _____.
Answer:
Sudden .
Question 7.
Kohler conducted experiments with Sultan to study the influence of _____ on insightful learning.
Answer:
Factors
Question 8.
Insight alters _____ according to Kohier’s experiments.
Answer:
Perception
Question 9.
The law of proximity states that near together things are picked up first and learnt more easily than _____ things.
Answer:
Distant
Question 10.
In Gestalt theory, the law of continuity suggests that objects having continuity are learnt more easily because they can easily make a _____.
Answer:
Whole
Question 11.
Gestalt psychologists proposed the law of _____, stating that everything is perceived in the context of its background.
Answer:
Figure-ground
Question 12.
The Gestalt principle of proximity emphasizes that items tend to form groups if they are _____ together.
Answer:
Spaced
Question 13.
Educational implications of Gestalt theory include presenting subject matter in _____ form.
Answer:
Gestalt
Question 14.
The insight theory of learning emphasizes making learning an intelligent task requiring mental _____
Answer:
Abilities
Question 15.
Gestalt theory criticizers argue that every kind of learning cannot be satisfactorily explained by the laws of _____.
Answer:
Gestalt
III. Correct the Sentences :
Question 1.
Max Wertheimer is the father of Gestalt Theory.
Answer:
Max Wertheimer is considered one of the founders of Gestalt Theory.
Question 2.
In the course of his University Education, he studied at the University of Tubingen (1905- 06), the University of Bonn (1906-07), and the University of Berlin (1907-09).
Answer:
In the course of his university education, he studied at the University of Tubingen (1905-06), the University of Bonn (1906-07), and the University of Berlin (1907-09).
Question 3.
In the final step, Kohier placed two boxes at one place in the cage, the banana was placed at an even high level.
Answer:
In the final step, Kohier placed two boxes at one place in the cage, and the banana was placed at an even higher level,
Question 4.
Factors Influencing Insight Many experiments have thrown light upon and established the various factors which influence insight.
Answer:
Factors Influencing Insight – Many experiments have shed light on and established the various factors that influence insight.
Question 5.
Some situations are more favorable than the others for insightful solution.
Answer:
Some situations are more favorable than others for an insightful solution.
Question 6.
Insightful learning has to pass through the process of trial and error.
Answer:
Insightful learning involves the process of trial and error.
Question 7.
The insight gained in particular circumstances is of assistance in other circumstances.
Answer:
The insight gained in particular circumstances is helpful in other situations.
Question 8.
Law of pragnanz: An organism is motivated to learn when there is tension or disequilibrium of forces in the psychological field.
Answer:
Law of pragnanz: An organism is motivated to learn when there is tension or disequilibrium of forces in the psychological field.
Question 9.
Gestalt is a composite of Psychology and Philosophy of Educatio
Answer:
Gestalt is a combination of psychology and philosophy of education.
Question 10.
Trial and error is an essential element in gestalt at one stage or the other.
Answer:
Trial and error are essential elements in gestalt at one stage or another.
IV. Answer the following questions in One word:
Question 1.
Who is considered the father of Gestalt Theory?
Answer:
Max Wertheimer.
Question 2.
Who refined and developed Wertheimer’s Gestalt Theory?
Answer:
Kurt Koffica and Wolfgang Kohler.
Question 3.
What does the term ‘gestalt’ mean in Gestalt Theory?
Answer:
The term ‘gestalt’ means a whole, a total composition.
Question 4.
In Gestalt Theory, how is an object learned by an individual?
Answer:
An individual learns an object as a whole, a single entity, not in parts or bits.
Question 5.
What succinct statement summarizes Gestalt Theory?
Answer:
‘The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.’
Question 6.
When was Wolfgang Kohier born’
Answer:
Wolfgang Kohier was born on 21 st January, 1887.
Question 7.
In which country was Wolfgang Kohler born?
Answer:
Wolfgang Kohier was born in the port city of Reval (now Tallinn), Governorate of Estonia, Russian Empire.
Question 8.
What animal was used in Kohier’s experiments to establish the existence of insight?
Answer:
A chimpanzee named Sultan.
Question 9.
What is the primary characteristic of insight in learning?
Answer:
Insight is sudden.
Question 10.
What educational implication does Gestalt Theory have regarding the presentation of subject matter?
Answer:
Subject matter should be presented in Gestalt form, emphasizing the whole before it’s individual parts.
Introduction
Max Wertheimer is the father of Gestalt Theory. Later on, Wertheimer’s theory was further refined and developed by Kurt Koffica and Wolfgang Kohler. C. V.Good defines gestalt configration, total structure, form or shape, a term designating an undivided articulate as a whole that cannot be made by the more addition of independent elements, the nature of each element depending on its relationship to the whole. The term ‘gestalt’ means a whole, a total composition. According to this theory, an individual learns an object as a whole, a single entity, not in parts or bits. In other words, an individual’s understanding of an object comprehends the whole object, not merely parts or bits . -f the object. This theory can be summed up in the succinct statement: ‘The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.’
Life sketch of Kohler
Kohler was bom on 21st January, 1887 in the port city of Reval (now Tallinn), Govemorate of Estonia, Russian Empire. His family was of German origin, and shortly after his birth they moved back to that country. There raised in a setting of teachers, nurses and other scholars he developed lifelong interests in the science as well as the arts and especially in music. In the course of his University Education he studied at the University of Tubingen (1905-06), the University of Bonn (1906-07) and the University of Berlin (1907-09). In completing his Ph.D. for which his dissertation addressed certain aspects of psychoacoustics. In 1910- 13, he was an assistant at the Psychological Institute in Franfurt in which he worked with fellow psychologists; Max Wertheimer and Kurt Koffka. He immigrated to U S in 1935. And he died on 11th June 1967 in Enfield, New Hampshire.
Kohler’s Experiments
In order to establish the existence of insight, Kohler conducted a number of experiments on a chimpanzee named Sultan. Although he conducted, a number of other experiments on dogs, hens, and other creatures, his experiments with Sultan were the most noteworthy. Kohler divided his experiment in to four steps.
1. Sultan was placed in a cage. A stick was placed in the cage and a banana just outside the cage, but outside Sultans direct reach. Sultan made many attempts to obtain the banana but it failed. It sat down in despair. But, after sometime it suddenly got Up, lifted the stick and used it to draw the banana towards itself.
2. In the second stage, Kohler placed inside the cage two sticks which could be joined to each other. This time the banana was so placed that it.could not be drown by the chimpanzee towards itself with a single stick. After numerous attempts, Sultan joined the two sticks together and succeeded in obtaining the banana.
3. In the third step, Kohler hung the banana from the roof of the cage of such a height as to ensure that Sultan could not reach it even by jumping upwards. Abox was also placed inside the cage. After many attempts, Sultan climbed up on the box and obtained the bananas.
4. In the final step, Kohler placed two boxes at one place in the cage the banana was placed at an even high level. At first, Sultan kept on trying to reach the banana by standing up on one box, but after numerous failures, it placed one box upon the other and claiming quit obtained the banana.
Factors Influencing Insight:
Many experiments have thrown light upon and established the various factors which influence insight. Some of them are mentioned below;
1. Experiment – Past experiences help in the insightful solution of the problems. A child cannot solve the problems of Modem Mathematics unless he is well acquainted with its symbolic language.
2. Intelligence – Insightful solution depends upon the basic intelligence of the learner. The more intelligent the individual is the greater will be his insight.
3. Learning Situation – How insightfully the organism will react depends upon the situation in which he has to act. Some situations are more favorable than the others for insightful solution. As a common observation, insight occurs when the learning situation is so arranged that all the necessary aspects are open for observation.
4. Initial Efforts or Trial and Error – Insightful learning has to pass through the process of trial and error. Whatever an activity may be, attempts or efforts or trials always lie at its root. This opens the way for insightful learning.
5. Repetition and Generalization – After having an insightful solution of a particular type of problem, the organism tries to repeat it in another situation, demanding similar type of solution. The way found in one situation helps him to react insightfully in the other identical situations.
Characteristics of Insight:
The above mentioned experiments make it quite obvious that learning by insight has certain characteristics of its own. They are briefly as follows:
- Insight is sudden.
- Insight alters perception.
- Old objects appear in new patterns and organization by virtue of insight.
- Insight is relative to the intellectual level. The higher species of animals including human beings have more insight than the members of lower species.
- In insight, understanding is more useful than dexterity of hands.
- Previous experience is of assistance in insight. An organized perception is an essential factor in learning.
- Maturity also affects insight as evidenced by the smoother working of insight in older age than in adolescence.
- If the pieces essential for the solution of the puzzle are present together when perceived, insight comes about earlier.
- Learning by insight is associative learning. Insight appears suddenly after the manipulation of thoughts or objects for a small, through significant length of time.
- The insight gained in particular circumstances is of assistance in other circumstances.
Principles Involved in Insightful Learning
There are principles involved in perceptual organization or insightful learning. Some of the basic laws propounded by Gestalt psychologists are as follows:
1. Law of figure ground : Everything is perceived in the context of its background. Thus, close relationship is there between figure and ground. For example, we try to solve a sum by using the means that closed areas are more stable and satisfying than the unclosed ones. Closed areas form groups very easily. This, law is also called law of closure.
2. Law of pragnanz : An organism is motivated to learn when there is tension or disequilibrium of forces in the psychological field. Learning is the removal of this tension. When we perceive an object, we find some gaps in our perceptions. These gaps are filled by the perceiver and a.whole figure is prepared.
3. Law of continuity : Objects having continuity are learnt easily because they can easily make a whole.
4. Law of similarity : This law makes the individual to grasp things which are similar. They are picked out as they were from the total context. Similar ideas and experiences get associated. An object revives another object which resembles or looks similar to it. For example, seeing a man and remembering an intimate friend by some resemblance though never saw them together in the past.
5. Law of proximity: This law states the proximate or near together things are picked up, first and learnt easily than distant things. In other words, perceptual grounds are favoured according to the nearness of their respective parts. Items tend to form groups if they are spaced together. For instance, a triangle or a circle is understood in this way.
Educational Implications :
1. Subject matter (learning material) should be presented in Gestalt form. The plant or flower as a whole be presented before the students and later on the parts should be emphasized.
2. In the organization of the syllabus and planning of the curriculum, the Gestalt principle should be given due consideration. A particular subject should not be treated as the mere collection of isolated facts or topics. It should be closely integrated into a whole. Similarly the curriculum should reflect unity and cohesiveness.
3. This theory has brought motivation in the fore-front by assigning purpose and motive, the central role in learning process. It is goal oriented. Purpose or goals of learning should be made clear to the students, before the teacher starts teaching.
4. The greater contribution of the insight theory of learning is that it has made learning an intelligent task requiring mental abilities. It has called a halt to the age old mechanical memorization, drill and practice work which lack in basic understanding and use of thinking, reasoning and creative mental powers.
5. It emphasizes that the learner must be given opportunities for using his mental abilities. Instead of telling him, how to do a work or solve a problem, he should be placed in the position of an independent enquirer and discoverer. He should himself collect the information and discover the knowledge. The teacher should not engage himself in spoon-feeding but help the children in acquiring knowledge and skill through their own attempts by using their mental powers. Scientific and progressive methods like Heuristic method, analytic and problem solving, which advocate the learning by insight, should be made more popular.
Criticism:- Some of the main objections against the gestalt theory are the following:
- Gestalt is a composite of Psychology and Philosophy of Education.
- Every kind of learning for example; reading, writing, sneaking ect….,. cannot be satisfactorily explained by the laws of Gestalt.
- Some scholars opine that the insight inherent in gestalt cannot be ascribed to Children and animals because they lack power of thought. However it is often observed in daily life that even very young infants display insight in many of their activiti.
- Trial and error is an essential element in gestalt at one stage or the other.