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GATE 2021 XH5 – Question 49

Perception, Learning, Memory and Forgetting · Theories of Learning: Classical conditioning, operant conditioning, social learning theory, cognitive learning · 2 marks · Multiple select

A classical-conditioning experiment plots acquisition of conditioned eye-blink responses across trials. Which statements describe the usual acquisition curve?

  1. Learning is faster in earlier trials than in later trials.
  2. The curve is negatively accelerated.
  3. Learning is faster in later trials than in earlier trials.
  4. The learning rate increases proportionally with trial number.

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) Learning is faster in earlier trials than in later trials.; (B) The curve is negatively accelerated.

Explanation

Acquisition generally rises toward an asymptote: gains are relatively large early and become smaller as learning approaches its limit. A describes that decreasing rate and B names it negative acceleration. C and D predict increasing rather than diminishing gains. Select A,B for the textbook curve assumed in the question.

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