Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Behaviorism in Practice
When I try to compare my instructional strategies used in the classroom to that of the principles of behaviorist learning theory, I am able to make quite a few connections. When it comes to my instructional strategy, I feel that I have a very student-centered classroom that revolves around my Constructivist instruction as well as collaboration. To go along with these aspects of my classroom, I also vary instruction everyday in a way that allows my differentiated learners to get the most out of my lessons and become highly successful. Reinforcement, a strong concept of the behaviorist learning theory, is one of the most effective classroom management skills I use to connect instruction, review class content, and to prevent disciplinary problems. Using both instructional strategies and behaviorist learning theory in connection with one another in the classroom will not only help you to succeed and to grow as a teacher but your students, too.
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It is so true that as you vary your teaching styles you will learn along with the students. I have found that within the behaviorist model, when using reinforcement it's important to be as specific as possible. For example when a student does something well, I try my best not to just say "good job." It's so much easier but when I take the time to say what they specifically did well it make a big difference. I also like to make sure that my students give specific feedback to one another during class discussions. This tool really helps foster a sense of community, and helps them see the vital role they play in learning from one another.
ReplyDeleteReinforcement is certainly key is making sure that students master the material. Like anything, the more that you do something, they better you will eventually become at it.
ReplyDeleteVarying your instruction will also be a technique that allows your to reduce behavior problems. When your students know that you understand them as learners, they are more comfortable in the classroom. As we know, when students are more comfortable they are less likely to act out. Reinforcement is also a key component in making you students successful.
ReplyDeleteI think you guys all make valid points... The idea that using reinforcement and varying instruction helps to prevent disciplinary problems and helps teachers to manage their classes is wonderful information, especially for newer teachers that have little if any experience, It certainly has helped me!
ReplyDeleteI agree, reinforcement is surely a good way to get the students to master the material you are teaching. It also does help on classroom behavior. Varying your instruction will only help keep the students involved, good idea. Continue working on how you like to do things. It is your first year, you will figure new things out all year long and then next year they will change.
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