AP Psychology Flashcards: Social, Cognitive, and Neurological Factors in Learning
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
A rat explores a maze without any food reward. Later, when food is placed at the end, the rat navigates it quickly. What does this demonstrate?
This demonstrates latent learning, as the rat formed a cognitive map of the maze without reinforcement, which was not evident until a reward was introduced.
Card 1 of 10
All Flashcards (10)
A rat explores a maze without any food reward. Later, when food is placed at the end, the rat navigates it quickly. What does this demonstrate?
This demonstrates latent learning, as the rat formed a cognitive map of the maze without reinforcement, which was not evident until a reward was introduced.
What is social learning theory?
Social learning theory proposes that learning can occur through observation (vicarious conditioning) and modeling the behavior and mental processes of others.
What are the two key mechanisms of social learning mentioned in the theory?
The two key mechanisms are observation, also known as vicarious conditioning, and modeling.
Define insight learning.
Insight learning occurs when a solution to a problem appears suddenly, without the need for direct conditioning or modeling.
After being stumped by a math problem, you take a break and the solution suddenly comes to you. What cognitive process is at play?
This is an example of insight learning, where the solution to a problem appears without direct, step-by-step conditioning.
A child learns to tie their shoes by watching an older sibling. What type of learning is this?
This is an example of social learning, specifically learning through observation and modeling.
How is latent learning often demonstrated?
Latent learning is often demonstrated through the use of cognitive maps, which are mental representations of a physical space.
What is vicarious conditioning?
Vicarious conditioning is a component of social learning where learning occurs by observing the consequences (reinforcement or punishment) of another's behavior.
What is latent learning?
Latent learning is learning that occurs without reinforcement and is not immediately evident, only being demonstrated when an incentive is present.
How do cognitive factors like insight and latent learning differ from social learning?
Cognitive factors involve internal mental processes like sudden realization or unreinforced knowledge, whereas social learning is based on external observation and modeling.