The Application of Behavioral Learning Theory in Education

The Application of Behavioral Learning Theory in Education
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The Application of Behavioral Learning Theory in Education
Behavioral learning theory is one of the systems used in education to discourage disruptive behaviors. It employs various behavioral interventions to establish a suitable environment that is academically focused and devoid of negative behaviors. This allows teachers to concentrate more on teaching and learning than addressing unruly behaviors among students. Studies show that John B. Watson, a twentieth century American psychologist, coined this theory. He asserted that all behavior is predominantly influenced by external stimuli (Hour, 2021). Watson’s theory was supported by B.F Skinner who held that changes in behavior are the result of an individual’s response to environment (Bryant et al.,2013). Understanding students’ behaviors enables educators to teach learners more effectively, which creates the concept of behaviorism. The application of this concept in education is the subject matter of this essay. First, the theory will be presented and then evidence regarding its application in education will be outlined and evaluated.
Behavioral Learning Theory
Behavioral learning theory or behaviorism is one of the popular concepts of psychology applicable in education. It focuses on how students learn, stating that behaviors are learned from the environment. The theory also holds the view that innate factors have little influence on behavior.Bryant et al.(2013) noted that behavioral learning theory utilizes primary ideas from the work of B.F Skinner, who held the view that learning occurs through rewards and punishments. According to Skinner, rewards increase the possibility of repeated behaviors, while punishment lowers the chances of repetition (Hour, 2021). He also theorized that rewards and punishments could either be positive or negative. This concept is most commonly used in classrooms today to manage students’ behaviors. Educators use it to teach students how to react and respond to particular stimuli. This should be done repetitively to constantly remind learners of the type of behaviors a teacher is seeking.
Application of the Theory in Education
Punishment
Punishment is an action taken by a teacher to reduce a student’s negative behavior. It decreases the strength or likelihood of a response. According to Hour (2021), this action involves increasing the intensity of a stimulus following the operant. It occurs when the individual punished receives the action to prevent or lower the possibility of particular behaviors. For instance, a teacher scolds a learner for failing to turn off their phone during a classroom session. The student scolded may feel ashamed in front of their classmates. Such students may try to avoid repeating the same mistake to avoid embarrassment in the future. Additionally, the action warns other students against particular behaviors that violate the classroom to avoid similar outcomes.
Teachers apply this approach in the classroom to modify unnecessary behaviors that may disrupt learning. ...