We all practice behaviorism learning theory in almost every way and every day. Instead of focusing on mental learning process, here we are focusing on behavioral learning process. Behaviorism focuses on objectively observational or external behavior. It is a theory of learning which states all behaviors are learned through interaction with the environment through a process called conditioning. Thus, behavior is simply a response to environmental stimuli.
Classical conditioning first studied by Ivan Pavlov; Behavior occurs as a result of pairing neutral stimuli with behavior at the time of/in conjunction with the behavior (association).Observational learning also known as Stimulus-Response model studied by John Watson. Observable behavior, rather than internal thought processes are the focus of study. In particular, learning is manifested by a change in behavior. The environment shapes one’s behavior; what one learns is determined by the elements in the environment, not by the individual learner. The principles of contiguity (how close in time two events must be for a bond to be formed) and reinforcement (any means of increasing the likelihood that an event will be repeated) are central to explaining the learning process.
Operant conditioning or Instrumental conditioning studied by Edward Thorndike and B.F Skinner have researched further Stimulus-Response model and stated that behavior recurrence is tied directly to positive/negative reinforcement “after” behavior occurs.
Technology has different tools and applications and this allows different students with different learning styles. Behaviorism in technology integration lead to the development of several aspects of instruction and learning production, some of which we still use in classrooms today, including direct instruction, lecture, behavioral objective as classroom management, behavioral reward system, positive reinforcement, and individualized instruction, among other notions. Technology fits into behaviorism as there are many applications based on behaviorism learning theory, they give positive reinforcement when a desired task is completed and provides a positive verbal feedback or visual feedback like claps sound and Great job! And this allows the student to get motivated, and negative reinforcement when an undesired task is done.
A great example of Behaviorism in a purer sense in Educational Technology is the website BrainPOP. This website has a variety of educational topics and are immediately followed by a short quiz, after which, based on the outcome, students can assess their own understanding of the video and content material. The results are shown immediately with explanations to help students better understand. Students will be willing to put forth more effort after reinforcement of higher scores (and thus, positive results). I am familiar with this app as my son is assigned work on BrainPOP by his teacher during school hours and I feel this app encourages students with positive reinforcement. Students get eager to use technology and when students are familiar with apps, they feel that the learning process easy.
https://heartarteducation.com/2017/06/04/behaviorism-learning-theories-and-technology/
https://lynnmunoz.wordpress.com/learning-theories/behaviorist-learning-theory/
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