Learning theories are abstract constructs that try to explain our experience as we learn. Perhaps the most well known of these theories focuses on B.F. Skinner and operant conditioning. Simply put, an operant refers to a behavior that “operates” on the environment.
Skinner’s model involves learning based on the consequences of our actions. Reinforcement happens when a behavior is repeated because of the consequences that follow it. When a behavior stops because of a consequence, punishment has occurred. Extinction occurs when a stimulus is presented without reinforcement. With children, "ignoring" and "time out" are examples of extinction.
Operant conditioning experiments with laboratory animals have demonstrated the power and effectiveness of this approach. Skinner created a contained environment sometimes referred to today as Skinner box. A rat or pigeon could initiate the action of pressing a lever to obtain a food pellet. Reinforcement could be delivered at various rates and intervals called schedules of reinforcement. For example, when reinforcement is continuous a new behavior can be learned rapidly. However, should reinforcement stop all together tat new behavior ceases in a similarly rapid fashion. Reinforcement that comes intermittently is slower to acquire but tends to create a more durable behavior. A basic application to consider is utilizing a continuous schedule to establish a behavior and moving incrementally to an intermittent schedule to maintain it.
We can observe operant conditioning in both spontaneous and contrived settings. For example, it has been observed quite extensively and naturally in human behavior. Socially, a smile or a compliment can act as positive reinforcement for behavior that preceded those consequences. On the other hand, it is used with intention and by design in instructional settings in the primary grades through college. Various grading schemes operate as both reinforcement and punishment for school-related behaviors.
Learning theories have powerful everyday applications when we consider that in every moment we are both teaching and taught. That is, we teach others how to treat us (with or without our awareness) by reinforcing, ignoring or punishing them. For example, note how you treat your friend or lover or child. Too often we ignore (extinction) behavior we like and give attention, like cajoling or nagging (positive reinforcement) to behavior that we don't like. Reversing that might have a noticeably positive effect on our lives!