Fagen et al - Elephant Learning (Draft)

What is operant conditioning?

• Learning from the outcome of our behavior

• Learning through trial and error

• Learning through punishment

• Learning through reinforcement

What is an example of negative reinforcement?

• Giving food as a reward

• Removing an unpleasant stimulus

• Praising the behavior

• Using punishment to shape behavior

What is a secondary reinforcer?

• A reinforcer that occurs naturally

• A reinforcer associated with primary reinforcers

• A reinforcer that is learned through trial and error

• A reinforcer that is given at intervals

How can operant conditioning explain the development of complex behaviors?

• By shaping behaviors gradually

• By combining simple actions in sequences

• By rewarding with praise

• By explaining underlying thoughts and feelings

What is the purpose of positive reinforcement training in the study by Fagen et al.?

• To teach elephants to perform a trunk wash

• To detect tuberculosis in elephants

• To improve the psychological well-being of elephants

• To investigate traditional elephant training techniques

What is the method of training used in the study by Fagen et al.?

• Negative reinforcement

• Punishment-based training

• Secondary positive reinforcement training

• Trial and error learning

What is the purpose of the trunk wash procedure in the study by Fagen et al.?

• To maintain the well-being of the elephants

• To train elephants to perform complex behaviors

• To detect respiratory diseases in elephants

• To investigate the behavior of captive elephants

What was the sample size in the study by Fagen et al.?

• 5 female elephants

• 10 female elephants

• 4 juvenile elephants

• 1 adult elephant

What training method was used to teach the elephants in the study by Fagen et al.?

• Capture method

• Lure method

• Shaping method

• All of the above

What is the purpose of using a sound marker in training animals?

• To indicate when the animal has correctly performed the desired behavior

• To provide immediate food rewards

• To avoid using punishment

• To shape behaviors gradually