Behaviorist Perspective

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Please answer the following questions. You should anticipate that each answer will be several paragraphs long and will refer to readings from class. (Questions 1 and 2 are worth 25 points each; Questions 3 is worth 40 points and Question 4 is worth 35 points.) 1. Discuss the “nature” perspective on knowing and learning. Be sure to include at least 3 different elements of such a theory. In doing so, also be sure to provide several real-life examples of how a classroom that is based on such a perspective would look. The “nature” perspective on knowing and learning focuses on the genetics and innate intellectual ability of students. It is a contrast to the “nurture” perspective that puts emphasis on ability shaped by experiences. Although the…show more content…
Discuss the behaviorist perspective on knowing and learning. Be sure to include at least 3 different elements of such a theory. Again, be sure to provide several real-life examples of how a classroom that is based on such a perspective would look. Behaviorism, an idea championed by B.F. Skinner, is the idea that behavior can be modified through operant conditioning. By offering reinforcing stimuli for good behavior, students’ intelligence can be conditioned and shaped. Behaviorism is focused on the fact that the student’s mind is a black box - emphasis on the output whereas the process doesn’t matter as much. Behaviorism in the classroom is evidenced by teaching machines, skill and drill techniques, and reward…show more content…
This reinforcing stimulus can be utilized to create shaping or the method of gradually teaching people what you desire them to do. A large component of behaviorism is the token economy of external motivation. This is a system where good behavior is rewarded with a token such as candy, free time, etc. Essentially, it is rewarding good behavior with something desired by the student. This idea works well especially in isolated environments such as asylums and hospitals. Studies debate whether conditioning is beneficial in the classroom. Another component of behaviorism is the idea of skill and drill techniques to promote learning. This is a quick activity with which a new skill is being practiced until it becomes automatic to the student. As long as the student gets the correct output, they are rewarded. Teaching machines are an example of a behaviorist technique. This idea stems from the notion that education can be more efficient by using technology to make students engaged. Advantages of teaching machines include immediate feedback, the teacher saves time, and every student can go at their own pace. However, there are also disadvantages to teaching machines. An example of this is in Erlwanger’s “Benny’s Rules and Answers” reading. Benny was a student who used a program that stressed upon getting the right answer instead of
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