July
2009
Behaviorism in Practice4
Behaviorism is a theory that is focused on observable behavior that is the response to certain outside stimuli (Staindridge, 2002). This theory has a huge affect on education and specifically classrooms and students. In recent years, many aspects of the theory have been criticized, but it is still seen often in schools and classrooms. This theory is also effective when put into practice to strengthen desired behaviors or to eliminate undesired behaviors, further showing that behaviors can be learned (Staindridge, 2002). Behaviorism is becoming even more prevalent in the classroom as it is very useful in many technological and web 2.0 applications. As an assignment for my master’s class through Walden University, I read a small portion of Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007). The section that I read focused on reinforcing effort and practice and the use of many computer applications and web 2.0 tools as they can be effectively used in the classroom.
It seems that many of the tools discussed in the text correlate closely with behaviorist learning principles. First, reinforcing effort is discussed. It is very important for students to understand the importance of effort on achievement (Pitler, et al., 2007). Teachers need to teach students about effort and using a spreadsheet program such as Microsoft Excel to allow students to track their effort and achievement over the course of a unit (Pitler, et al., 2007). Pitler, et al (2007) also suggest collecting testimonials and vignettes from older students and teachers and displaying these on the school website for current students to be reminded that they can be successful if they put forth the effort. Teachers should also collect data, possibly through online surveys, as a resource to encourage students and to show the connection between effort and reinforcement (Pitler, et al., 2007). Using these tools to show students the relationship between effort and achievement will ultimately positively reinforce (Staindridge, 2002) students because the students will see that their effort (stimulus) gives them the desired result of achievement or good grades.
The text also discusses technological tools that allow for more “drill and practice” (Pitler, et al., 2007, pp. 189) as well as opportunities for students to learn and explore information outside of the classroom (Pitler, et al., 2007). Using resources on the web allow students to practice concepts and skills and receive immediate feedback and more practice and explanations if necessary. This feedback will reinforce the students work by either positively affecting them or remediating them if necessary. These types of web resources are very helpful for students who need practice developing and using a skill. For example, in English class, resources like this can be very helpful when students are learning about the parts of speech and how to put together sentences and paragraphs. Many of the web resources recommended by Pitler, et al. (2007), such as BrainPOP, allow students to explore and learn more about discussed in class when they are at home.
Web resources allow students to practice what they are learning in school while getting the positive reinforcement they need in order to see the connection between their effort and achievement.
References:
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Standridge, M.. (2002). Behaviorism. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved 7/7/09, from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
I completely agree with your assertion that drill and practice/tutorial web-based programs can positively bring behaviorist learning theory into the classroom. Particularly since it can be troubling for teachers to constantly monitor that impact of certain stimuli on any given student, websites such as those you describe are built to respond to the user independently and provide the user with the appropriate feedback that will, eventually, achieve the desired result. Technological advancements such as these will drastically help many students to better comprehend classroom objectives and promote development in a fun and engaging way. Although behaviorism is controversial, these new types of technological innovations make it much easier for educators to put this theory into practice in the classroom and at home.
I agree with you that behaviorist principles are in education in various ways. The two strategies that were presented in the book by Pitler et al., were definitely centered on these types of principles. I think students need the reinforcement that behaviorism talks about throughout the many theories of it that have been presented throughout time. I think with the new technology that is coming out there is going to be a lot of programs that have reinforcement involved because that is what our students need in the classroom.
Thank you both for your comments. I agree that behaviorist principles are going to be present in education throughout time. Behaviorism through technology is here to stay and I think it will be very beneficial to our students over time.
The behaviorist theory is alive and kicking in many classrooms. I believe that teachers need to work on the positive aspect of the behaviorist theory to make an impact on our classrooms. By using the different technologies available for all ages of students, teachers can set this to make remarkable learning enviroment for our children. I work in a military community and many of my parents have to have their children in day care, etc for several hours after school. By notifing the after school providers of the many different programs available for our students to work on provides an opportunity for the students to be working on more productive web sites than just playing a game. By providing this information to the child care providers our students are either reinforcing the skills or strengthening them. This helps with the drill and practice that is needed.
I would appreciate any web sites that you might have that could be added to the list. The more sites we can find for the variety of age groups, I see it as a win/win for all.