There are numerous examples of classical conditioning that any one person, if they understand what it is, can cite as having had an impact in their lives. For example, most of us have gotten sick after eating a particular type of food, and experience nausea or distaste for quite some time afterwards whenever that food is even mentioned or thought of. That is an example of classical conditioning, and is just one type that many people experience. It happens every day, all of the time. But, on the other hand, operant conditioning also happens all of the time too.
In real life implications, operant conditioning is probably more useful to know and implement. It is useful for managers, parents, teachers, coaches and anyone who is trying to teach anyone anything. Research supports and backs operant conditioning as an ethical, humane and effective tool for teaching. Classical conditioning isn't as friendly. For example, alcoholics can use classical conditioning to overcome their addiction; they can take a medication that makes them sick every time they drink. It can be effective, but it sure isn't pleasant. Operant conditioning can be used in more pleasant and less dangerous ways to enhance learning.
Take a kid learning how to ride a bike, for instance. Operant conditioning principles can be applied. The primary reinforcer is the parent's praise, and the thrill of learning to ride a bike. A secondary reinforcer might be treats or money that the parent offers when the kid learns different aspects of the task at hand. Positive reinforcement is encouragement from the parent, and acceptance by other peers who ride their bikes. Negative reinforcers could be injuries while learning. These principles can be applied to almost anything that one learns. I hope that those thoughts helped; good luck!
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