Behaviorism

        Behaviorism is the theory that describes learning is due to an observable change in behavior. The behaviors are sometimes learned in the process. In this theory, the learners observe the information, practice the information and then receive reinforcement through praise. The classic example of behaviorism is when Pavlov used classic conditioning to investigate the digestive system of dogs. Pavlov conditioned the dogs to react to the sound of a tuning fork. The tuning fork became a conditioned stimulus. Other famous theorists include Edward Thorndike who is known for inventing the puzzle box to investigate problem solving in animals and B. F. Skinner who is known for inventing the concept of operant conditioning.

                In a Behaviorist classroom learning takes place through acquiring facts, concepts and skills. In this type of classroom one may observe a reward system for positive learning behavior. There may be a money system where the students earn classroom buck to spend at a later time. Also, there may be progress charts visible. In this classroom, there may be contracts on a particular student’s desk. Also, the learners will be receiving effective praise in small and large accomplishments. Also, the teacher reinforces for both positive and negative behavior. The teacher is a supervisor in the Behaviorist classroom. Finally in this classroom there may be an emphasis on mastery learning with rewards and consequences in place.

                Learning from the behaviorist point of view involves gaining knowledge from observable behavior. Because of this, behaviorist influenced technology occurs through drills and practice. This type of software focuses on skill building by using the method of observing a particular skill and practicing the skill. Most drill and practice software gives instant feedback by telling the user whether the answer is correct or incorrect. Some examples of drill and practice software are Math Blaster, Learn to Speak Spanish and Numbers Munchers.

SOURCE:

abanksto.myweb.uga.edu/portfolio/bankston_learning.pdf