Instructional Strategies and the Behaviorist Theory
I believe that the Behaviorist Learning Theory will always be present in the classroom. Behaviorist learning theories emphasize change in behavior that result from stimulus-response associations made by the learner (Standridge,2008). It achieves the desired result, most of the time, and would be the go to method for most teachers. In saying that, I believe we must strive to motivate our student intrinsically to allow for rewards to all students, not just the ones who finish a worksheet first or get 100 on a spelling test.
As for the examples from the Laureate DVD, I would even be bored completing those tasks. Technology is to be a vehicle of expression and a means to confer knowledge. This is not a way to fix test scores. Technology should be utilized in a way to allow students to explore subject matter content and use higher level thinking skills. The remedial preparation seen on the video was unfortunate. Sites such as http://www.webmath.com/k8drill.htm and http://www.dctech.com/physics/student_help.php, are great sites!! They are wonderful vehicles for teachers to use to reinforce knowledge but should not be the only methodology implored to reinforce said content. Students should also be making rigorous and relevant connections to everyday life and the world they live in through these means but also using traditional methodologies such as homework, cooperative learning activities, and writing activities.
I also am a firm believer in memorization. This “normal” instructional strategy that has been used for years, should not go by the waste side. Once students have firm foundation in a content area, technology and Web 2.0 tools should be utilized to aid the learner. This is an excellent way for students to collaborate and give opinions on topics. It also allows students to express themselves by being creative, show cross curricular connections and showa different side of themselves to the educator and their peers.
References
Laureate Education, Inc.(Producer). (2009). Behaviorist Learning Theory [Motion Picture]. Bridging learning, theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author.
Standridge,M. (2008, Feburary)What is Behaviorism? Emerging Perspectives on Learning,Teaching and Technology. Retrieved November 11,2009, from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Main_Page
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I agree that memorization has its place especially with skills like math facts and high-frequency vocabulary, however, I also think its important for students to understand the "why" of a skill. My students memorize and I use drill and practice activities for reinforcement when needed but I don't think it should be the most used instructional strategy. I truly believe that the biggest disservice when do to our students is not giving them opportunities to think, problem solve, and be creative. What subjects do you teach? What activities do you have your students participate in that you consider follow the behaviorist theory?
ReplyDeleteJen~
ReplyDeleteI definitely believe that relevance is important in education. If the learner can apply the subject matter to everyday life, they can feel reassured that this is worth there time and energy, they are more motivated to complete assignments and be engaged in learning process.
Currently, I teach Physical Science & Honors Biology to freshman. One way I use the behaviorist theory is when it is time to get progress reports signed or forms brought in. If the students bring in their cards/progress reports the next day, I give them munchkins or lollipops. This is something simple, and believe it or not, the high school kids love!
This is just one simple but effective way to use it.
~Michele