A student tries several methods to solve a difficult mathematics problem.…
2026
A student tries several methods to solve a difficult mathematics problem. After making repeated mistakes, he finally finds the correct solution and uses the same method in similar problems later. This learning best illustrates:
Answer: D. Trial-and-error learning — ConceptLearning by trial and error is an incremental process: a learner attempts different responses, observes their consequences, discards ineffective…
- A.
Observational learning
- B.
Rote memorization
- C.
Insight learning
- D.
Trial-and-error learning
Attempted by 32 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Concept
Learning by trial and error is an incremental process: a learner attempts different responses, observes their consequences, discards ineffective responses, and retains the effective one.
Its defining pattern is repeated self-generated attempts followed by selection and reuse of the response that succeeds.
Application
The student tries several methods, makes repeated mistakes, identifies a method that solves the problem, and later reuses it. This is the attempt–outcome–selection–retention sequence.
Contrast
Observational learning depends on learning from a model's demonstrated behavior; no model is described here.
Rote memorization emphasizes repeated recall of material; the student instead tests alternative methods.
Insight learning centers on a sudden grasp of the solution; the stem emphasizes repeated attempts and errors.
Cross-check: the successful method is retained and transferred to similar problems, which is the expected strengthening of a response selected through its successful consequence.
Therefore, the learning illustrated is trial-and-error learning.