Behaviorism is a learning theory that focuses on observable behaviors and discounts internal mental states. It utilizes positive and negative reinforcement to promote desired behaviors. There are two types of conditioning: operant conditioning, where behaviors are strengthened through rewards, and classic conditioning, demonstrated by Ivan Pavlov's dog experiments. Major contributors to behaviorism include John Watson, Ivan Pavlov, E.L. Thorndike, and B.F. Skinner. Behaviorism can help teachers manage classrooms by reinforcing positive behaviors with students and establishing structured learning environments.

1. Behaviorism
Elizabeth Wilson
EME 2040

2. Defining Behaviorism
 Learners respond to stimuli
 Utilize positive/negative reinforcement
 Promotes reaching desired behavior

3. Conditioning
Operant Conditioning Classic Conditioning
Operant conditioning shows that by
completing a task, the subject will be Classic conditioning, shown
rewarded. Subject will remember above, is illustrated by Ivan
reward for the action completed and Pavlov’s famous dog salvation
will become conditioned to the conditioning experiments that led
learned behavior. up to the methods used in operant
conditioning.

4. John B.
Watson
Ivan
Pavlov
B.F.
Skinner
E.L. Contributors to the Behaviorism Theory
Thordike

5. B.F. Skinner has been
one of the major
contributors in
demonstrating the
effects of Behaviorism in
the field of education.
He formulated the
theory of operant
conditioning based on
the reaction of a subject
after the response of a
behavior was given.
He developed a piece of
technology called a
cumulative responder
that showed the rate of
response.
B.F. Skinner 1904-1990
“Education is what survives when what has been
learned has been forgotten”

6. Teachers Can assist with classroom
Utilizing management
Behaviorism
Students will respond
to positive and negative
reinforcement to
enhance learning and
behavior tendencies.
This can be utilized as a
tool for teachers in
order to establish
structure to promote a
successful educational
environment.

7. Student Improved student behavior to
Response to promote learning
Behaviorism
Students will be
provided with a
structured environment
that will enable them to
learn at their maximum
potential.
Behaviorism is geared
toward establishing
within students an
attitude that will help
improve their
concentration skills and
comprehension.

8. Behaviorism In My Classroom
Use small steps in
lesson plan
Give students
immediate feedback
Repeat directions
continuously
Use positive
reinforcement

9. Philosophy of
Education and
Behaviorism
Students want to do well and it
is our job as instructors to
ensure that students reach their
potential. By reinforcing the
behavior desirable for the
classroom environment, I will
be able to implement and meet
my goals as an instructor by
establishing guidelines that the
students will feel comfortable
(yet challenged) to work within.
It is my ultimate desire to assist
students in the learning process
and using techniques of
Behaviorism will help me, and
my students, succeed.