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Unit 1 of 5

Unit 1: Learning Theories

Study guide for CLEP CLEP Educational Psychology — Unit 1: Learning Theories. Practice questions, key concepts, and exam tips.

413

Practice Questions

10

Flashcards

4

Key Topics

Key Concepts to Study

Behaviorism and classical/operant conditioning
Constructivism and Piaget's stages
Social learning theory and Bandura
Information processing models

Sample Practice Questions

Try these 5 questions from this unit. Sign up for full access to all 413.

Q1EASY

How does scaffolding help to reduce student frustration?

A) By increasing the difficulty of tasks
B) By reducing the need for practice
C) By ignoring student struggles
D) By providing temporary support and guidance
E) By never providing feedback
Show Answer

Answer: D — By providing temporary support and guidance is correct because scaffolding helps to break down complex tasks into manageable parts, providing students with the support they need to succeed, which can help to reduce feelings of frustration and anxiety.

Q2EASY

Which of the following is a benefit of standards-based education?

A) Increased emphasis on rote memorization
B) Reduced focus on critical thinking skills
C) Improved student outcomes and increased accountability
D) Decreased parental involvement
E) Limited opportunities for student feedback
Show Answer

Answer: C — Improved student outcomes and increased accountability is correct because standards-based education aims to ensure all students meet specific learning standards, promoting accountability and improved academic achievement.

Q3EASY

A teacher provides stickers to students for completing their homework, what type of motivation is this?

A) Intrinsic motivation
B) Social motivation
C) Competitive motivation
D) Extrinsic motivation
E) Personal motivation
Show Answer

Answer: D — Extrinsic motivation is correct because the stickers serve as an external reward, since this external factor is motivating the behavior.

Q4EASY

Which observation method involves recording behavior in a natural setting?

A) Laboratory observation
B) Structured observation
C) Participant observation
D) Naturalistic observation
E) Survey research
Show Answer

Answer: D — Naturalistic observation is correct because it involves recording behavior in a natural setting, providing a more authentic and realistic perspective.

Q5MEDIUM

Which of the following is a characteristic of a causal relationship?

A) The relationship is bidirectional
B) The relationship is correlational
C) The relationship is temporal, with the cause preceding the effect
D) The relationship is only observed in a laboratory setting
E) The relationship is only observed in a naturalistic setting
Show Answer

Answer: C — A causal relationship is characterized by a temporal relationship, with the cause preceding the effect, since cause must come before effect in order for the relationship to be considered causal.

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Study Tips for Unit 1: Learning Theories

  • Focus on understanding concepts, not memorizing facts — CLEP tests application
  • Practice with timed questions to build exam-day speed
  • Review explanations for wrong answers — they reveal common misconceptions
  • Use flashcards for key terms, practice questions for deeper understanding

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