Idea LearningThe procedures recommended for learning ideas depend on whether the training follows operant conditioning theory or social cognitive theory. Operant conditioning theory the following procedures:1.Ideas must be divided into a sequential pattern of concepts and subconcepts2.Learners should be allowed to master one concept before proceeding to the next3.Learners should be required to practice each response and to demonstrate mastery of each concept4.Reinforcement should be provided to reward each step in the learning process5.Learners should be required to review the material frequently to avoid forgetting. Forgetting new ideas is less likely to occur if each idea is used as a building block for further learning. According to social cognitive theory the process of learning ideas is grounded in symbolic learning. Here, learning is a process of discovery, and trainees should actively participate in the learning process. The trainees should be allowed to explore situations so that they may eventually discover for themselves the operating principles or relationships involved Sometimes this discovery process involves a sudden flash of insight and understanding. At other times it involves the le gradual discovery of common elements, common principles, or sequential trends. The trainer can frequently assist the trainee not so much by instructing or presenting information as by asking questions and attempting to focus the trainees' thinking and discovery processes in a particular direction.