The Behaviorist Learning Theory

In analyzing two instructional strategies from the text Using Technology with Classroom Instructionthat Works, I found that implementing technology to reinforce effort and utilizing it for homework and practice are very useful to students in the learning process (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007).  In addition, from a behaviorist learning perspective, students have the ability to work at material at their own pace and allows them to progress when they are ready to which isn’t always the case in the classroom. 

Often in class there are students that lack intrinsic motivation to strive and achieve their best.  Sometimes these students just lack the skills to break down specifically what is needed to meet the expectations of the teacher.  Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski (2007) suggest utilizing programs such as Microsoft Excel or Survey Monkey to create rubrics and surveys that enable students to break down the amount of effort they are putting into certain parts of a project.  These ideas exemplify the principles of the behaviorist learning theory because the students can take the survey or score the rubric to see how they are progressing on specific parts.  Once they meet the expectation, they can then start working on the next section.  It allows the students to break down the requirements, allows them to understand what will be expected, and ensures they are learning what they need to before moving on to another task.

Furthermore, by implementing homework and practice with technology, teachers are ensuring that students are working on necessary skills on their own, learning them correctly, and having fun and enjoyment in the learning process (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007).  Websites such as Starfall, BrainPop, Mousercise, and Dance Mat Typing teach students specific skills that they need to work on.  As students progress through the sites’ games and tutorials, they are awarded with certificates that demonstrate their completion of the various levels.  This can serve as documentation for a teacher that a student has worked on these specific skills at home or on their own.  I have used Starfall and Dance Mat Typing within my first grade classroom, and my students love learning with these programs because they are at their instructional level and challenge the students appropriately.  These examples epitomize the behaviorist learning perspective because students are working on a task within their instructional level, are rewarded for their learning and progress to a more challenging stage.  If they are unable to move beyond that particular stage, they repeat it until they have a better understanding of it. 

The behaviorist learning theory is ever present in today’s education process.  This method can be highly effective in ensuring that students are reaching their targeted learning outcome or goal.  Students work at a level that is appropriate for them, not the entire class.  Since differentiation is so important in today’s classroom, with the implementation of technology this often difficult and overwhelming concept can be effectively achieved.

References

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