• Author / Uploaded
• Marina Kon

Citation preview

Name

: Laely Istiqomah

Student Number

: F12112011

Class

: B+

Subject

: TEFL Methodology

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. Classroom Implication 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. Common misconception about negative reinforcement •

Negative reinforcement is when a teacher gives negative attention.

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Negative reinforcement is when a negative behavior is increased.

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Negative reinforcement is a milder form of punishment.

Sample 1a.  Billy hates Mr. Pierce's math class.  He has learned that if he acts out in class, he can get out of the class.  He starts acting out more frequently in class, so that he doesn't have to be in  class.  What consequence is being applied to his acting out behavior?  Behavior Acting out in class

Consequence Gets out of (avoids) class

Effect of Consequence on Behavior More likely to act out

Instructional Technology Behaviorism 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.