The learning mechanism in traditional connectionist models occurs through receiving input, generating a response, observing the discrepancy between that response and the correct answer, and then making the appropriate adjustments within the

processing units. It is plausible that children learn like this in a variety of contexts. However, this learning mechanism seems less plausible in some contexts. Describe one context well suited for this type of learning mechanism and one context that may pose a problem for this type of learning mechanism.

What will be an ideal response?

A tutor-tutee (or teacher-student, or self drilling with flash cards) context is well suited for this type of learning. In this context, the tutee can respond to questions posed by the tutor, and the tutor can correct any errors in thinking. However, a more independent learning context may pose a problem for this type of learning mechanism because there may not be a way for the learner to figure out or find the correct answer. If the learner is unable to figure out or find the correct answer, then he or she cannot observe the discrepancy between his or her way of thinking and the correct answer, and therefore, no adjustments will be made.