In psychology, learning is a relatively permanent change in behaviour or knowledge that results from experience. It is distinct from maturation, which is biologically driven, and from temporary states such as fatigue or illness.

Three major paradigms dominate the study of learning: classical conditioning, in which a neutral stimulus comes to elicit a response after pairing with an unconditioned stimulus; operant conditioning, in which behaviour is shaped by consequences such as reinforcement and punishment; and observational learning, in which behaviour is acquired by watching others. Cognitive approaches also emphasise mental processes such as attention, memory, and expectation.

Major types

• Classical conditioning (Pavlov)
• Operant conditioning (Skinner)
• Observational learning (Bandura)
• Cognitive learning and insight