The behaviourist learning theory is based around operant conditioning. Operant conditioning has two elements: punishment
of undesirable behaviours and reinforcement of desirable ones (Laureate
Education Inc., 2010). Several different
instructional strategies correlate with the behaviourist learning theory.
The instructional
strategy of reinforcing effort “enhances students’ understanding of the
relationship between effort and achievement by addressing students’ attitudes
and beliefs about learning” (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007). This instructional strategy directly
correlates with the behaviourism learning theory. Reinforcing students’ efforts is a way of
reinforcing desirable behaviors. We want
our students to have positive attitudes and plenty of effort therefore,
reinforcing that effort is addressing
the desirable behaviour.
The instructional
strategy of homework and practice “gives students a chance to review and apply
what they have learned”(Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007). Homework and practice is a recommended instructional
strategy under certain guidelines and recommendations. It is suggested that if a student is
completing homework that “it is commented on” (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn &
Malenoski, 2007). By providing feedback
on student homework the teacher is following the behaviorism learning theory. The
specific comments would be reinforcing the positive behavior or work that the
children are doing and also the negative or undesirable behaviour or work that
the student is providing.
References
Laureate
Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Baltimore: Michael
Orey.Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
I agree that "commenting on" homework is an excellent way to provide the reinforcement of wanted behavior; however, as an 11th and 12th grade teacher, I also feel a large obligation to begin training my students to do their homework without the reward of a grade, or positive comments (at least not every time). I wonder how (or if) behavior theories account for the need to move students toward a more intrinsic motivation?
ReplyDelete~Colleen McDonald (colleenmcdonald3@blogspot.com)
Thanks for your post Colleen. I think intrinsic motivation is definitely key. Having students do things for themselves and their own success is will lead to succeed in the "real-world."
DeleteI completely agree that reinforcing effort is a great way to show students how valuable effort is. At a young age, it is often very difficult to see the importance of the effort we put forth so we as teachers must do our best to show students how effort raises accomplishments.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree!
ReplyDeleteHi Jasmin,
ReplyDeleteAppropriate feedback is vital as it relates to improved student performance. It allows the student to manage their learning by setting goals, taking careful consideration in decision making, and reflecting on past experiences. Students must also be able to monitor their processes of learning by revisiting their goals, being aware of their reactions to certain learning scenarios, and taking into consideration the act of thinking about thinking. When providing students with positive academic support, it increases the probability that the targeted goals will be met.
Hi Jasmin,
ReplyDeleteRewarding effort is clearly a fundamental part of our jobs as educators. However, I also liked the idea of a chart in which students can record the effort they put into projects and the corresponding grades. This allows them to see the benefits of increased effort, and subsequently the rewards that they can get.