Learning how to learn

We learn all the time, for example learning about other people, learning how to use a new phone... But how do we learn? Christine Brain explores the three main theories that make up the learning approach in psychology.

The three major theories of how we learn are discussed here: classical conditioning, operant conditioning and social learning theory.

Classical conditioning involves involuntary responses, or reflexes. Reflexes are automatic responses to stimuli. For example, dust can make you sneeze, some substances will make you sick, and a loud noise can make you startle or jump.