PS261 Chapter Notes - Chapter 4: Classical Conditioning, Asymptote
Document Summary
How much is learned on a conditioning trial depends on the effectiveness of the us on that trial. Idea that the effectiveness of a us is determined by how surprising it is is the basis of this model. An event is surprising if it is different from what is expected. An unexpectedly large us is the basis for excitatory conditioning and an unexpectedly small us or the absence of the us is the basis for inhibitory conditioning. The expectation of the us is related to the conditioned or associative properties of the stimuli that precede the us. Strong conditioned responding indicates strong expectation of the us, weak conditioned responding indicates a low expectation of the us. V = associative value of the stimuli that precede the us. V = the level of surprise/difference between what occurs ( ) and what is expected (v) At the limit/asymptote of learning, v = and surprise term ( -v) is equal to zero.
