Thorndike Connectionism

Thorndike's Connectionism Theory
Prepared by: Laguialam Jay

Thorndike's Connectionism Theory,
Developed by Edward Thorndike in the early 20th

century, is a foundational theory in the field of educational
psychology. It focuses on how learning occurs through
the formation of associations (connections) between
stimuli and responses. Thorndike's theory was one of the
first attempts to explain learning in terms of behaviorism,
and it laid the groundwork for later behaviorist theories,
including those of B.F. Skinner. Below are the key
components of Thorndike’s Connectionism:
Key Concepts of Connectionism Theory:
1. Learning as a Trial-and-Error Process:

Thorndike proposed that learning occurs through trial and
error. When individuals encounter a problem, they try
different responses, and the responses that lead to a
satisfying outcome are strengthened, while those that
lead to failure are weakened or eliminated. This process
eventually results in the "correct" response becoming
associated with the stimulus.
2. Laws of Learning: Thorndike developed several laws that explain how connections
between stimuli and responses are formed:
Law of Effect: This is the most important of Thorndike's laws. It states that behaviors
followed by satisfying outcomes (rewards) are more likely to be repeated in the future, while
behaviors followed by unpleasant outcomes (punishments) are less likely to occur again.
Law of Readiness: This law suggests that learning is more effective when learners are ready
or prepared to respond. If the learner is not ready, attempting to engage in the behavior may
result in frustration. Motivation plays a crucial role here.
Law of Exercise: The more often a stimulus and response are connected through practice,
the stronger the association becomes. Repetition strengthens the connection, whereas lack of
use can weaken or eliminate it.
3. Stimulus-Response (S-R) Bond: Thorndike believed that
learning is the result of the formation of a direct bond between a
stimulus and a response. When a learner is presented with a
specific stimulus, they develop a response based on past
experiences or previous learning.
4. Incremental Learning: Thorndike's theory emphasizes that

learning occurs gradually and incrementally. It is not sudden but
rather a process in which associations are strengthened over
time through practice and feedback.
Transfer of Learning: Thorndike also explored the idea that
learning one skill or piece of knowledge could help in learning
another related skill, a concept he called the identical elements
theory. Transfer of learning occurs when similar elements exist
between two tasks.
Role of Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement (reward) plays a

significant role in Thorndike's theory. The "satisfaction"
experienced after a successful response strengthens the
connection between stimulus and response, while negative
reinforcement weakens this connection.
Applications in Education:
 Reinforcement in Learning: Thorndike’s Law of Effect highlights the
importance of rewards and reinforcements in the classroom. Teachers
can use positive feedback and rewards to strengthen desirable
behaviors or learning outcomes.
 Practice and Repetition: Thorndike’s Law of Exercise emphasizes the
importance of repetition and practice in skill development. Students are
more likely to retain information and improve skills through consistent
practice.
 Readiness for Learning: According to the Law of Readiness,
educators should consider whether students are prepared to learn.
Assessing student readiness and providing appropriate challenges
helps facilitate effective learning.
Criticisms of Thorndike’s Theory:
Though Thorndike’s Connectionism has had a lasting impact, it has been

criticized for its focus on mechanical stimulus-response associations and
for ignoring cognitive processes such as insight, reasoning, and
understanding. Later theories, like cognitive learning theory, have
expanded upon or challenged his behaviorist approach.
In summary, Thorndike's Connectionism Theory describes learning as the

formation of associations between stimuli and responses, influenced by
the consequences of those responses. It emphasizes the importance of
reinforcement, practice, and readiness in learning.
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Thorndike's Connectionism Theory

Prepared by: Laguialam Jay

Developed by Edward Thorndike in the early 20th

1. Learning as a Trial-and-Error Process:

4. Incremental Learning: Thorndike's theory emphasizes that

Role of Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement (reward) plays a

Though Thorndike’s Connectionism has had a lasting impact, it has been

In summary, Thorndike's Connectionism Theory describes learning as the

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