Identify the major similarities and differences between classical and operant conditioning.

Classical and operant conditioning are similar because both are about making associations between the individual's behaviour and their acts. However, is important to highlight some crucial differences.

"In Classical conditioning , the response is a reflex and involuntary. In Operant conditioning , the response is a voluntary behaviour.

In Classical conditioning, the stimulus is new to the animal. In Operant conditioning, the behaviour is new to the animal.

In Classical conditioning, the reflex (response) follows the stimulus. In Operant conditioning, the behaviour (response) precedes the reward or punishment (stimulus).

In Classical conditioning, association occurs whether the stimulus is pleasurable or aversive. In Operant conditioning pleasurable reward leads to repetition while aversion leads to extinction.

In Classical conditioning, strength of conditioning is measured by speed or amount of response. In Operant conditioning, strength is measured by rate of production of behaviour". (Sparks, J.)

Operant conditioning emerged as a reaction to Classical conditioning which was not proper to use working with human beings. Nowadays, we have new strategies and approach to use overall in educational field. However, Operant conditioning is a very good strategy to use at home and in classrooms.

This answer was based in the article: "Similarities and Differences Between Classical and Operant Conditioning" by Joseph Sparks. Available in: https://www.tutor2u.net/psychology/reference/similarities-and-differences-between-classical-and-operant-conditioning