Learning through trial and error is often referred to as what type of learning?

Learning through trial and error is best described as instrumental learning. This type of learning occurs when an individual attempts different strategies to reach a desired outcome, learning from the consequences of their actions. Essentially, the learner is motivated to modify their behavior based on experiences that either lead to success or failure. In instrumental learning, the focus is on the results of actions, which reinforces behaviors that yield positive outcomes and discourages those that do not.

For example, an animal might learn to press a lever to receive food; through repeated attempts and varying responses, it eventually figures out the correct action to take to access the reward. This process highlights the role of reinforcement and consequences in shaping behavior, which is central to instrumental learning.

Other types of learning, such as imitative learning, involve observing and replicating the behavior of others, mechanical learning refers to learning by rote or repetition without understanding, and cognitive learning emphasizes understanding and internalizing information. Each of these approaches has different mechanisms and outcomes compared to the trial and error method that defines instrumental learning.