Behaviourism
and
Teaching
"Behaviourism is an important factor in effective teaching. Behaviourist theories are used to create and maintain both a positive learning environment and improved opportunities for student learning."(Eggen & Kauchak, 2010)
Students spend a lot of their day in the classroom and therefore teachers must ensure they make an effort to create and maintain a positive classroom environment where misbehaviour is minimized. (Williams et al 2010)
Behaviourists believe that learning occurs through conditioning (Berger, 2005). Conditoning in the classroom is used to modify student behaviour and facilitate learning. The most common behaviourist techniques employed by teachers are positive and negative reinforcement and shaping. (Williams et al 2010)
Applied Behaviour
Analysis and
Modeling
Applied Behaviour Analysis (the application of of behaviourist principles to change students behaviour in the classroom) can be implemented using a five step process introduced by Eggen & Kauchak in 2010.
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Identify target behaviours.
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Establish a baseline for target behaviours.
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Choose reinforcers and punishers (if necessary).
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Measure changes in target behaviours.
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Gradually reduce the frequency of reinforcers as behaviour improves.
Modelling is also used in the classroom. Students have the opportunity to see desired behaviours and skills modeled by the teacher and other classmates. Modeling can be achieved though imitating behaviour displayed by others. “Cognitive modeling is an effective method for learning, the teacher demonstrates a task and verbalises the process and thinking behind it (Eggen & Kauchak, 2010, p. 181). This models for students a way of thinking and problem solving” (Williams et al 2010).
Behaviourist
Classroom
Setting
Willliams Et. Al (2010)