Learning Experience - Psy/103

Learning Experience Paper

PSY/103

Learning Experience Paper

From the moment we enter into this world from the womb, humans are bombarded with stimuli and other conditioning. This stimulus plays a significant role in developing who we are, how we perceive elements before us and as important, how we react to those stimuli or events. The course that we take on this journey varies greatly from person to person. The various theories and methods discussed in the proceeding paper will evaluate the potential results from these various stimuli and conditioning, where they derive from and how they impact our learning experience.

Throughout the world, there are few learning experiences that rival the association of sharks and the ocean and the subsequent fear that is elicited by people as a result. Some fear has reached an irrational level and is known as galeophobia, which means “Excessive and persistent fear of sharks” (Definition of fear of sharks, 2012, para. 1). These fears can occur on their own. However Hollywood of past, the maker of "JAWS" and ever increasing current events covered by expanding media have assuredly brought many new shark phobias into the fold. Fears commonly develop from the unknown or based on what cannot be seen, and those of the deep continue to underlie a mysterious phenomenon. On top of that, recent proof of bull sharks making their way into the brackish waters of rivers and tributaries have only validated some of these fears.

As an experienced outdoorsman, surfer and diver, I have learned to have respect for all of my surroundings. While mankind typically has a good command of their surroundings, we are at risk on a daily basis, from muggings to shootings, to vehicle accidents and more. Climb a mountain, walk a ledge, run out in lightening or swim in the ocean and possibilities of injury or more are there. We simply must live our lives regardless and accept the risks that we face.

People, throughout times, have been drawn to the coasts...