Foundations of Animal Learning and Training Techniques

Are you interested in pursuing a career working with animals? Whether you aspire to become a zookeeper, animal shelter professional, veterinarian, or animal trainer, understanding the science of animal learning and behavior is an essential skill. This workshop offers an introduction to the principles of animal training, combining foundational theory with practical, hands-on experience to help participants develop effective and humane training techniques.

Participants will explore the fundamentals of classical and operant conditioning and learn how these principles shape animal behavior and learning. We will cover a variety of practical training techniques, including capturing, luring, targeting, and shaping, while also examining reinforcement schedules, stimulus discrimination, and how to establish reliable behaviors on cue. Through these concepts, attendees will gain insight into how animals learn, how to communicate clearly and consistently, and how to build successful training plans.

A substantial portion of the workshop will be dedicated to hands-on practice, allowing participants to apply their knowledge, refine their techniques, and develop confidence in their training abilities. Whether you are just beginning to explore animal-related careers or looking to strengthen your existing skills, this workshop will provide a valuable foundation for applying the science of animal learning across a variety of professional settings.

Speaker Biography:
Meg Greenberg is a first-year graduate student at North Carolina State University, where she is pursuing an M.S. in Integrative Biology. She earned a B.S. in Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation and a B.A. in Psychology from Canisius University. Her academic background combines the science of animal behavior with practical experience in animal training, behavior modification, and welfare. Meg has gained hands-on animal training experience across a variety of settings, including the U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, North Georgia Wildlife Park, and the Canisius University Animal Behavior Laboratory. She has also worked with animals across a range of taxa, developing an appreciation for how training techniques can be adapted to different species and individual needs. Meg is excited to share the science and practice of animal training, helping participants develop practical skills and a deeper understanding of how animals learn.