Learning

Learning
Learning is a prerequisite for behavior
Every aspect of human behavior is responsive to
learning experiences
Learning occurs all the time
Definition A relatively permanent change in the
frequency of occurrence of a specific individual
behavior.
We never see someone learning. We can see changes
taking place
A manager want employees to learn productive work
behavior

The Definition has several

components
1. Learning involves change may be good or bad from
organizational point of view
2. The change must be permanent temporary changes may be
only reflexive or temporary adaptation
3. Learning is said to have taken place when there is change in
behavior / actions and not just thoughts or attitude
4. Some form of experience is necessary for Learning
experience could be direct through observation or practice or
indirect through reading etc.

 In order to explain , predict or shape behavior one

needs to understand how people learn
Organizations have to provide learning experiences
such that employees behave desirably
Especially important in the highly dynamic
contemporary environment.
Promote a learning culture in the organisation

Tools for Shaping Behaviour

Reinforcement A behavioral contingency that follows
and increases the frequency of a desirable behavior.
Positive Reinforcement A pleasant consequence of desired
behavior. (A reward may prove to be a reinforcement)
Negative Reinforcement- An unpleasant event is presented
before the behavior and removed when the behavior does occur.

Punishment Often confused with negative

reinforcement. Used to decrease the frequency of
undesirable behavior

Behaviour Modification Options

Behavioural
Operationlisatio
Procedure
n

complime
employ
n
Manage
t
Positive
r
s
Reinforceme each time work is
n
completed
t
on
schedul

e
Negative

Unpaid overtime continues

to be

Ef
ect

e
Increases
e desired
behaviour

Increases desired