A clear example of latent learning in humans is a child, Ravi, who learns the route to school by being driven by his father every day. Although Ravi has acquired the knowledge of the route, he has no opportunity to demonstrate this learning. When a situation arises where his father cannot drive him, Ravi is able to navigate the route on his bike. This demonstrates that the learning had occurred previously but was not expressed until there was a motivation to do so.

Google

Latent learning is a form of learning that is not immediately expressed in an overt response and occurs without obvious reinforcement. This knowledge remains unobservable until a reason or motivation to demonstrate it arises. This phenomenon is not limited to animal experiments; it also occurs in humans. For instance, children may learn by observing their parents' actions but only apply that knowledge later when a specific situation requires it.

Latent Learning

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

A cognitive map is a mental representation of the layout of a physical environment. This concept, initially demonstrated in Edward Tolman's experiments with rats in mazes, also applies to humans. People form these mental maps when navigating new locations, such as a museum or hospital. However, the effectiveness of a cognitive map can be diminished in confusing environments with similar-looking areas or limited lines of sight, which makes it difficult to navigate successfully.

Cognitive Map

A common illustration for the experiments demonstrating latent learning involves a maze setup. This setup typically shows rats within the maze, which has a designated starting point and a food reward placed at the end to serve as a goal.

Learn Before

Related