Behavorism in Practice

The instructional strategies Reinforcing Effort and Homework and Practice correlate with the principals of the behaviorist learning theory in a variety of ways. One technological tool that can be used to reinforce effort in the classroom is the use of a spreadsheet. Teachers can educate students on how to create a spreadsheet and how to use one to measure effort throughout specific subject areas in class. It is important for students to understand the importance of effort in school, but this is an area many students don’t quite understand because it has never been personally observed. Smith (1999) states that in the behaviorist theory, positive reinforcers are the strongest motivators for students. Some positive motivators are rewards, recognition, and personal successes. Helping students visualize and understand the role effort plays in their individual success will reinforce their effort in school.  Many students have not internalized their capabilities as students. Teachers need to help students understand how they can succeed and be successful in school, and students need to see the effects of their effort to their success in school. Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, and Malenoski (2007) state the following regarding student motivation: “Research shows that the level of belief in self-efficacy plays a strong role in motivation for learning and achievement” (p. 155). The use of a spreadsheet helps students build their belief in themselves, and gives reinforcement for their effort in school.

The instructional strategy Homework and Practice also correlates with the ideas of the behaviorist learning theory. In the behaviorist learning theory, Smith (1999) states that repetition as well as activities that allow the student to become an active learner are important for reinforcing student learning. Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, and Malenoski (2007) rephrase the work of Marzano, stating that “Students need about 24 practice sessions with a skill in order to achieve 80% accuracy” (p. 188). For this reason, repetition is incredibly important in reinforcing learning. Homework assignments and practice, during and outside of class, need to provide a variety of opportunities for students to show their learning in a multitude of ways. One technological tool that allows students to reinforce their learning is through the use of online educational games. Online games generate immediate feedback, allow students to monitor their own progress, and provide incentives (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K., 2007). Immediate feedback is important for students to assess their learning and reinforce their understanding. An online educational game is just one way to provide practice and repetition for students both at home, and in the classroom.

References:

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.

Smith, K. (1999). The behaviorist orientation to learning. In The encyclopedia of informal education. Retrieved from http://www.infed.org/biblio/learning-behavourist.htm