Friday, September 14, 2012
Behaviorism In Practice
Behaviorist learning theory is applied in the classroom. According to Skinner, learning is observed through behavior. This process can be useful in structured activities. In higher education, students are involved in computer-assisted activities. Shield (2000) spoke about how instructional software being an example of behaviorism. I can definitely see this in my simulation instructional activities. The students are working through a computer. It offers a tutorial and a chance to practice before the required activity is graded. According to Shield, this type of learning is rewarded through encouraging comment and when that task is complete then you are able to move on to the next objective. The pace is based on the student’s level. Lastly, behaviorism is useful in case studies, problem-solve situations and memorization. I can definitely see the relevance in behaviorism in the early years of a student life as well as in higher education. Each faculty member needs to evaluate her students on what learning theories are more relevant in the classroom. Our goal should be,to leave no child or adult behind.
Shield, G (2000). A critical appraisal of learning technology using information and communication technologies. Journal of Technology Studies.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I find that there is such a tremendous difference between higher education and elementary education. You mentioned in your post that many students are involved in computer-assisted activities. I think this is an exceptional way to learn concepts and to practice activities. In today's society, we are surrounded by technology and many people in school feel comfortable with it. I like that technology affords students the opportunity to move at their own pace, and this is also beneficial to the learning process. However, in elementary school, I believe it is much different. In my school, we are just moving into the 21st century with technology. There is more available to us, but there is the learning factor for the educator. I look forward to the time when I can have students work on concepts on the computer and move at their own pace so that I can support them more efficiently.
ReplyDeleteAt the elementary level of education one can clearly see the modeling of behaviorism as students at this level try to model expected behavior in the classroom with the teacher reinforcing good behavior. At the higher level, however, more educational technology is used facilitating students to work at their own pace. Despite this great advantage, I must agree with Dr. Orey statement that the use of educational technology for drill and practice should be kept at a minimal to avoid students’ becoming overwhelm and lose their passion for learning (Laureate, 2011). Behaviorism is still alive in the classroom.
ReplyDeleteReference
Laureate Education, Inc. (2011). Behaviorist learning theory. [Video webcast]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fwebapps%2Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Flauncher%3Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_1374104_1%26url%3D
Susan,
ReplyDeleteAs a student of higher learning, I find that it is so much different from elementary school. At elementary school, teachers are responsible for making sure that you learn concepts through the activities taught which is done face to face as opppose to higher learning, where you are responsible for your own learning. This is through tutorials as you mentioned; a task that would be somewhat a challenge to smaller students. Teachers would have to monitor students as they complete the task at hand, step by step.
However, I do believe that behaviorism is essential to promote students' learning. Students at the elementary level have to be reinforced for positive behaviors. The use of technology is definitely one method of reinforcement but should not only be used for that but to facilitate learning. Yes, students may become dependeent as stated but that to me is ok. If students have an interest in something, that is the best thing to use to facilitate learning.
Shona