Which theory explains learning as a result of consequences that follow behavior, shaping future actions?

• A. Behaviorism
• B. Classical conditioning
• C. Operant conditioning
• D. Direct instruction

Answer: (C)

Operant conditioning is about learning driven by the consequences that follow a behavior, which shapes how likely that behavior is to happen again. When a behavior is followed by a reinforcing outcome, it’s more likely to be repeated; when it’s followed by a punishing outcome (or when reinforcement is removed), it’s less likely to occur in the future. This captures how rewards and punishments, or removing aversive conditions, mold voluntary actions over time. For example, praise or a small reward after finishing a task increases the chance the task will be done again, while removing a disliked task after good performance can also reinforce the desired behavior. In contrast, classical conditioning involves forming links between two stimuli to trigger automatic responses, not shaping behavior through consequences. Direct instruction is an instructional approach that emphasizes explicit teaching and guided practice, not a theory about learning from consequences.