Books:
* Animal Intelligence: An Experimental Study of the Associative Processes in Animals (1898): This book is considered a landmark in the history of animal psychology and laid the foundation for Thorndike's theory of connectionism.
* Educational Psychology (1903): This book introduced Thorndike's theories of learning to a broader audience and played a key role in shaping the field of educational psychology.
* The Psychology of Learning (1913): This book further elaborated on Thorndike's theories of learning and emphasized the importance of practice, reward, and association in the learning process.
* The Fundamentals of Learning (1932): This book provided a comprehensive overview of Thorndike's work on learning and included his later theories on transfer of learning and the role of motivation in learning.
Key Theories and Concepts:
* Connectionism: Thorndike's theory that learning is based on the formation of connections between stimuli and responses. This theory is based on the idea that learning occurs through repeated association and reinforcement.
* Law of Effect: This law states that behaviors followed by a satisfying outcome are more likely to be repeated, while those followed by an unpleasant outcome are less likely to be repeated.
* Law of Exercise: This law emphasizes the importance of practice and repetition in strengthening the association between stimuli and responses.
* Law of Readiness: This law suggests that learning is most effective when the learner is ready and motivated to learn.
Thorndike's work had a profound impact on the fields of psychology, education, and animal behavior. His theories continue to be influential in modern psychology and educational practices.