Behaviorist learning theory is described as providing praise and positive reinforcement for good behavior and punishment for negative behavior (Laureate, 2008). When students follow directions and complete a task they are given a reward of either praise, something tangible, or a privilege. However, if they do not comply with what is expected of them they receive negative feedback or punishment.
“The instructional strategy of reinforcing effort enhances students’ understanding of the relationship between effort and achievement by addressing their attitudes and beliefs about learning (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K., 2007). Students who work hard reap the benefits of a reward and they eventually make the correlation between doing work and being successful in school. Students who put the time and effort into their class work and homework become more proficient in their academics.
Some other strategies that correlate with the principles of behaviorist learning theory are cooperative learning, homework and class practice, incorporating multimedia activities, and summarizing and note taking.
Laureate Education Inc. (2008). “Behaviorist Learning Theory.” Baltimore, MD: Laureate Education Inc.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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You are absolutely right - in case students are given the chance to cooperate, they work much harder. In case they are enabled to use technology, they work much harder. And, finally, in case they know what the expected outcomes of their efforts are, they profit much...
ReplyDeleteSarah,
ReplyDeleteI believe that effort is the key in helping students achieve success socially and academically. This is the foundation of behaviorism.
Sarah, Did you get a chance to look at the Social studies resource listed this week?
ReplyDeletehttp://www.phschool.com/curriculum_support/ss_skills_tutor/
I thought it was a great example of behaviorist theory in action. What I liked most about it was that it was not just questions listed and the viewer selecting answers. It incorporated some multimedia elements which appealed to different learning styles. It has lots of visual illustrations, an audio track, and it also allows students to apply what is taught in an example. It definitely kept my attention, which has been my concern with straight drill and practice programs. In the past I have had many students who quickly grow bored with those types of programs. The reward is not worth their effort. AS computer software becomes more sophisticated I think they will become more effective with today's students.
I actually like a system where students who work hard recieve a reward. Of course, we have to move into a learning process that motivates students in other ways too, but I think hard work should be rewarded. This year, we started a school wide reward system. We give out "bucks" and students get to shop when they save up enough "money". These bucks can be given out for any good thing done by a student. This has been a wonderful motivator for students, but what we found, is that our students liked the environment of the school better when everyone's behavior had improved. The students' behavior got better even when the reward wasn't always there. Isn't this how behaviorism is supposed to work in the best scenario.
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