Educational philosophy has developed for centuries based on teaching and behavioral theories. According to Waseem and Aslam (2020), behaviorism theory is based on the principles of stimulus and response. Thorndike’s, Skinner’s, and Cagné’s experiments were foundational to the development of behaviorism and understanding of learners’ psychology and shaping teaching methodologies.
A stimulus combined with a reward may lead to the desired behavior. As Bates (2019) states, Thorndike believed that intelligence results from learning connections, which can be strengthened by stimulating individuals correctly. As my teaching practice showed, schoolchildren need to be directed at the early stages of their education.
Motivation, information retention, and generalization are the essential components of effective teaching. According to Bates (2019), Cagné believed that a teacher plays a critical role in ensuring that children master the learning. As my experience demonstrated, children do not know how to learn effectively; thus, it is crucial to guide them.
Skills are taught by priming and training tied to a specific stimulus and outcome. According to Aubrey and Riley (2022), Skinner, the father of operant conditioning, described positive and negative reinforcements to enhance or weaken behavior. This theory was helpful in my classroom because praising one’s actions helped obtain the desired response.
Behaviorism is a valuable educational theory that helps understand children’s psychology. The three scientists that made a significant contribution to formulating this theory are Thorndike, Cagné, and Skinner. Their legacy is still implemented in classrooms, and I used the principles of behaviorism to correct and direct students’ learning.
References
Aubrey, K., & Riley, A. (2022). Understanding and using educational theories. Sage.
Bates, B. (2019). Learning theories simplified: And how to apply them to teaching. Sage.
Waseem, T., & Aslam, F. (2020). Educational learning theories & their implications in modern instructional designs. Health Professions Educator Journal, 3(2), 25-31. Web.