Behaviorist learning theory is a topic in education that some educators are not sure about. After reading this weeks resources, behaviorist learning theory is something that is and can still be used in the 21st century classroom. Some wonderful examples of how to incorporate technology were given in Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works by Pitler, et al, such as using spreadsheets, data collection tools, word processing, multimedia, and web resources. These resources are used to help students with academic behaviors that will produce the wanted result for both the teacher and student. Behaviorism is primarily concerned with observable and measurable aspects of human behavior. In defining behavior, behaviorist learning theories emphasize changes in behavior that result from stimulus-response associations made by the learner (Standridge, 2002). When looking at the chapter about Homework and Practice, the strategies given help promote the learning theory in the following ways. When homework is given in the correct amounts and feedback is given it will help students reach the expected level of proficiency. Homework is given to reinforce what was taught in class and to help a student master a concept. When relating homework to the learning theory, I see it as the teacher is given the assignment and has an expected outcome in mind as well as the student knowing that the more practice they get, the better it will be for them. Online educational games are also a great form of technology to use in the classroom. Teachers can put students in literacy or math centers on specific websites that will help a child further there knowledge about a topic. Online educational games have an inherent appeal and generate immediate feedback that allows a student, parent, and teacher to monitor progress toward mastery (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). The appeal and feedback is a reward to the child for a positive action therefore the child will want to continue the action for more positive reinforcement.
Behaviorism is something that can make a positive impact on students and a classroom if used in the correct way and with multiple strategies.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Orey, M. (Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
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Shannon, do you find that you use technology to support behaviorism? Gathering the "observable and measurable aspects" you mentioned above has become very easy with technology. Using online quizzes and surveys, or spreadsheets to track effort and progress are simply ways for you and your students to see the changes and learning over a unit, semester, or year.
ReplyDeleteJessica Kemnitz
I agree with you that behaviorism is still in classroom today. The various strategies that Pitler et al., presented were great ways that displayed this theory. I also agree that online games give the immediate feedback or reinforcement that students are seeking today., I find myself in the classroom trying to give the feedback in a timely manner, but that is not always happening due to the work that needs to take place in and around a classroom. Do you find yourself giving the feedback that these games do as well in other areas of the classroom?
ReplyDeleteBrooke
ReplyDeleteNo, I find that giving feedback is something that I need to work on personally. I do give feedback but I need to give it quicker because I know that my students look for and also benefit from it.
Shannon-
ReplyDeleteOnline gaming is definitely a great way for immediate feedback for students. Do you think that this encourages students to continue going over the same skill to get a better score? If so, then this would be promoting mastery not just a basic understanding. Unfortunately as teachers we do not have the time to give immediate feedback on everything that is going on around us for every student.