Basics of Operant Conditioning

Presented by Iron Oak Canyon Ranch's Animal Care Academy, this segment of our Animal Behavior series of clinics and classes will focus on the basics of operant conditioning, the behavior theory that most modern professional animal training is built on. Operant conditioning works with nearly every species, because it appeals to the basic instincts of most forms of life.  
 
In this class, you’ll learn the basic principles of operant conditioning and how these puzzle pieces fit together to create a well-behaved animal. In order to achieve a career in professional animal training, students must not only memorize the principles of operant conditioning, but understand them. By making these concepts memorable and accessible, this class will be the foundation for a lifetime of training.
 
This class is taught by ranch owner Lessa Ritzma, whose previous career credits include zookeeper and exotic animal trainer, along with over twenty years of horse experience.
 
This is lecture-only class. A live animal may participate for demonstration purposes. All participants will qualify for the Animal Behavior: Basics of Operant Conditioning credit for Iron Oak Canyon Ranch's Animal Behavior certificate. The Animal Behavior courses build off each other and are therefore meant to be taken in order. Students must complete The Language of Training prior to taking this course. An exception will be made for Animal Care certificate students who are taking this course as a bonus credit. 
 
$30 per participant for 1-hour class. Limit 20 participants. Weather permitting.

Message us to sign up or ask questions.