Jay Is Furious When His Midterm Is Returned with a C

question 38

Essay

Jay is furious when his midterm is returned with a C grade. He tells his sociology professor that he had
read each of the assigned chapters three times and if someone can do that and just be average then there is
something wrong with the test. Based on your understanding of critical thinking and memory, what is
wrong with Jay's reasoning? What are some other possible reasons for Jay's average performance? How should Jay study for the next test in order to get a better grade?

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Definitions:

Fixed Ratio

In operant conditioning, a schedule of reinforcement where a response is reinforced only after a specified number of responses.

Latent Learning

Latent learning is the subconscious retention of information without reinforcement or immediate application, which becomes evident when a specific situation triggers it.

Operant Conditioning

A method of learning that employs rewards and punishments for behavior, which in turn affects the likelihood of that behavior being repeated.

Law Of Effect

A principle in psychology that suggests behaviors followed by favorable consequences become more likely, whereas behaviors followed by unfavorable consequences become less likely.