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Classic Condtioning and Operant Condtioning

Photo Credit: Rand Lemley

Can someone please explain these two learning methods in a very basic form. I am having a challenging time internalizing classical conditioning. Thanks.

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Classical and Operant Conditioning
by: Anonymous

Classical conditioning is where, through repeated instances of exposure to an object, sound, smell, or something else neutral, combined with exposure to a an organism to an either pleasurable or disagreeable stimulus (such as a food reward or a painfully loud noise), an organism 'learns,' subconsciously and unintentionally, to associate something neutral with either positive or negative feelings.

Operant conditioning, however, deals with voluntary behavior as a result of repeated rewards or punishments, rather than subconscious associations. For example, training a dog to fetch something in return for a treat is an example of operant conditioning. As is punishing someone for doing something wrong.

Hope this clears it up, ended up a bit longer than I intended. :)

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