Learning Assignment
According to Domjan (2018), when a behavior is changed over time due to repeated
exposure to a stimulus, this can be defined as learning. “Learning is an enduring change in the
mechanisms of behavior involving specific stimuli and/or responses that results from prior
experience with those or similar stimuli and responses” (Domjan, 2018). Certain shifts in
behavior may be considered as learning a new behavior; however, Domjan (2018) argues that
short-lived changes are not indicative of learning because they do not involve consistently
processing the same behavior. When considering learning, Domjan (2018) explains, experiences
throughout one’s life will create new knowledge, giving them the ability to learn new behaviors.
The behavioral modifications from those hands-on experiences are processed and are unique to
the learning experiences, as some of those modifications are taken and some are not.
There is importance in knowing that there are behavioral mechanisms that do not change
direct behaviors, such as fatigue. For example, working outside in the heat for an extended
period can give a feeling of exhaustion, a gradual decline in response that was produced by an
experience. The reason why this is not an example of learning is that the gradual decline will
lessen if the person who is getting tired is able to take breaks, giving them energy again. In
addition to fatigue, other short-term changes in behavior, such as physiological or motivational
states, are not considered to be learning (Domjan, 2018). For example, if an individual takes a
drug and the side effects change their behavior, that is short-lasting. As well as when an
individual is hungry or thirsty, these are considered to induce a response at only certain times
(Domjan, 2018). In my personal experiences, when I am asked to take on a new role at work, it
requires me to watch videos and training simulations to begin to learn my new role. However, if
all I do is watch a video for a day, then ask to take what I learned and bring it with me the
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following day, I am unable to recall all the details. Instead, I took what I was able to process
from my training simulations, printed off policy and procedures, and communicated with other
leaders to get a better understanding of the role and how I can translate it consistently in the real
world for an extended period of time.
Growing a relationship with God and strengthening an individual’s journey in their faith
takes consistency. The Christian understanding of learning is a part of salvation and
sanctification because it is a long-term commitment; no short-term behavioral modifications will
strengthen an individual’s faith, however, consistently understanding one’s faith will build
character and grow behavioral changes that will influence an individual’s future. “Do not
conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you
will be able to test and approve what God’s will is- His good, pleasing and perfect will” (New
International Bible, 1978/2011 Romans 12:2). By first understanding Jesus Christ, Him dying on
the cross, His resurrection, Adam and Eve and their story are big pieces of Christianity. Salvation
is an individual’s choice to live their life in the eyes of God and embrace Him by understanding
and learning through this process.
Sanctification is the ability of an individual’s character and mind to be conformed to
Jesus Christ. An individual does not wake up one day and know they're going to Heaven because
they believe in God. This is the farthest from the truth. Christians seek to constantly grow their
relationship with God, live in His word, and conform their life ultimately to God. Therefore, they
are also learning, an essential part of sanctification. By allowing the pursuit of knowledge and an
individual’s Christian journey of salvation and sanctification, the textbook shows how the two
relate closely to learning. “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands,
you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded” (New International Bible, 1978/2011
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James 4:8). A connection with God is a connection that is unable to be had with any other
relationship. He encourages you to have a sincere desire to build a relationship with Him, He
promises that He will reciprocate His love for you and guide you along the path that He has
already created for you.
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