Behaviorism Theory Of Learning

What Is The Meaning Of Behaviorism?

Behaviorism Is A Philosophy Of Learning That Only Focuses On Objectively Observable Behaviours And Discounts Mental Activities.

Behavior Theorists Define Learning As Nothing More Than The Acquisition Of New Behavior. Experiments By Behaviorists Identify Conditioning As A Universal Learning Process.

There Are Two Different Types Of Conditioning, Each Yielding A Different Behavioral Pattern:

1. Classic Conditioning

Classic Conditioning Occurs When A Natural Reflex Responds To A Stimulus.

The Most Popular Example Is Pavlov's Observation That Dogs Salivate When They Eat Or Even See Food. Essentially, Animals And People Are Biologically "Wired" So That A Certain Stimulus Will Produce A Specific Response.

2. Behavioral Or Operant Conditioning

Behavioral Or Operant Conditioning Occurs When A Response To A Stimulus Is Reinforced. Basically, Operant Conditioning Is A Simple Feedback System: If A Reward Or Reinforcement Follows The Response To A Stimulus, Then The Response Becomes More Probable In The Future.

For Example, Leading Behaviorist B.F. Skinner Used Reinforcement Techniques To Teach Pigeons To Dance And Bowl A Ball In A Mini-Alley.

How Behaviorism Impacts Learning:

• Positive And Negative Reinforcement Techniques Of Behaviorism Can Be Very Effective
• Teachers Use Behaviorism When They Reward Or Punish Student Behaviors.