Author
Edward L. (Edward Lee) Thorndike
1874-1949
Edward L. (Edward Lee) Thorndike (1874-1949) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaBooks by Edward L. (Edward Lee) Thorndike
Animal intelligence: Experimental studies
"Animal Intelligence: Experimental Studies" by Edward L. Thorndike is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work explores the intellectual capabilities and behavior of various animals using experimental methods, marking a significant shift from anecdotal observations to more structured scientific inquiry in psychology. The central topic of the book revolves around how animals learn and form associations based on their experiences, as well as the experimental studies Thorndike conducted with cats, dogs, and chicks. The opening of the volume introduces the reader to the dual focus of animal psychology: understanding both the consciousness and behaviors of animals. Thorndike discusses the limitations of previous psychological studies, emphasizing the shift towards experimental approaches that assess observable behaviors rather than introspective measures of consciousness. He lays out his intention to provide a clearer understanding of associative processes in animals’ minds, asserting that these associations play a crucial role in their learning and adaptation to their environments. The section establishes the groundwork for the subsequent detailed experimental studies that follow, highlighting the necessity of rigorous methodology in uncovering the intricacies of animal intelligence.
The Psychology of Arithmetic
"The Psychology of Arithmetic" by Edward L. Thorndike is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the psychological principles that underpin the teaching and understanding of arithmetic in elementary education, aiming to enhance educational practices through psychological insights. The text appears to focus on effectively measuring and improving students' arithmetical skills and reasoning through a structured approach based on empirical research. The opening of the book introduces key concepts in educational psychology, specifically related to the teaching of arithmetic, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of the processes involved in learning arithmetic skills. Thorndike outlines the significant progress made in psychology regarding learning and habit formation, emphasizing the formation of connections between various arithmetic concepts and the importance of practice in developing these skills. He illustrates how a clearer definition of the functions of arithmetic education can lead to improved instructional methods, addressing issues such as the meanings of numbers, problem-solving, and the vital role language plays in mathematical understanding.