Learning TheoriesBehaviorism

Lianna Cabrera

Key People of the Theory

Ivan Pavlov

Albert Bandura

B.F. Skinner

Key Points of the Theory

• The behaviorism learning theory says that thinking does not have to take place for a person to learn.

• Classic conditioning: refers to the natural reflex that occurs in response to a stimulus. – Ivan Pavlov– i.e. Experiment with Pavlov’s dog

and salivation.

Cont. of Key Points of the Theory

• Operant conditioning: refers to learning that is controlled and results in shaping behavior through reinforcement of stimulus response pattern. – B.F. Skinner – i.e. Experiment to teach pigeons to

dance using this technique .– Students need both positive and

negative reinforcement depending on their actions.

Cont. of Key Points of the Theory

• Observational modeling: refers to a method of learning through observation of their environment.

• Self efficiency: refers to a personal observation about one’s perceived ability to feel, think, and motivate oneself to learn.

• Imagery: refers to a person’s ability to retain information through images in the mind.– Albert Bandura

Classroom Implications

1) What the teacher does under this theory (with and without technology)…– Gain the students’ attention– Offer rewards for good/desired behavior

• Stars, verbal approval, & student of the week, etc.

– Offer consequences for negative/undesired behavior• Detention & parent phone calls, etc.

2) What the students do under this theory (with and without technology)… – Understand what is wanted of them – Find motivation to attain the desired reward/outcome

My Own Teaching

• Although I do believe in the learning theory of behaviorism, I also feel that cognitivist and constructivism are valid theories as well.

• I feel that I would be able to incorporate many of the learning theories in one classroom.– The learning/teaching method would have to go

along with what I am teaching, I think that all of them are right at certain times and should be used at differently and appropriately.

Work Cited

Boeree, George. "Albert Bandura". Personality Theories. 04/17/2010 <http://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/bandura.html>.

Shelly, Gary B. . Teachers Discovering Computers. Boston, MA: Course Technology , 2010.

Simmons, Dr. Kent . "Operant Conditioning". 04/17/2010 <http://kentsimmons.uwinnipeg.ca/16cm05/1116/16behave.htm>.

"The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 1904". Nobel Prize . 04/17/2010 <http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/medicine/laureates/1904/>.