Behaviorism is a theory of learning that focuses on observable behaviors and interactions with the environment, without consideration of internal mental states. There are two major types of conditioning: classical conditioning, where a stimulus is paired with a response; and operant conditioning, where behaviors are reinforced through rewards or punishments. Major thinkers in behaviorism include Ivan Pavlov, B.F. Skinner, John B. Watson, Edward Thorndike, and Clark Hull. Behaviorism can be applied in classroom settings through positive and negative reinforcement of behaviors.

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2. Tools
What? Conditioning Types Thinkers Applied Home

3. Behaviorism is…
•A principle of “stimulus-
response”
• All behavior caused by
external stimuli (operant
conditioning)
• All behavior can be
explained without the need
to consider internal mental
states or consciousness

4. Behaviorism is…
• A theory of learning with belief that behaviors are
acquired through conditioning
• Conditioning occurs through interaction with the
environment
• Behavior can be studied in a systematic and observable
manner with no consideration of internal mental states
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5. There are two major types of
conditioning:
Classical conditioning
• Technique in behavioral training where a
naturally occurring stimulus is paired with a
response
Operant conditioning
• Method of learning that occurs
through rewards and punishments
for behavior
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6. Major Thinkers in Behaviorism:
Ivan Pavlov
B. F. Skinner
John B. Watson
Edward Thorndike
Clark Hull

7. John B. Watson Biography (1878-1958)
Best Known For:
• Behaviorism
• Little Albert Experiment
Contributions to Psychology:
• Watson set the stage for behaviorism
• Theory rose to dominate psychology
• Concepts and principles are still widely
used today
• Used in therapy and behavioral training
• Clients change problematic behaviors and
develop new skills
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8. Use of Theory in Classroom
• Teachers could reward their class
or certain students with a party or
special treat at the end of the week
for good behavior throughout the
week
• The same concept is used with
punishments, by taking away
certain privileges if the student
misbehaves.

9. •Teachers respond to this theory by:
•Heads on the table to implicate students
have finished their work
•Students respond to this theory by:
•Hand signals; raising your hand to speak
or putting your pointer finger over your
mouth to implicate silence
•Lights off to also implicate silence

10. Use of Theory in my Classroom
Positive reinforcement :
•Smiling at students after a correct
response
•Commending students for their
work
•Selecting them for a special
project
•Praising students' ability to parents

11. Negative reinforcement:
•Submitting all assignments on time results in
the lowest grade being dropped
•Perfect attendance is rewarded with a
“homework pass”
Punishment:
•Three tardies to class results in a call to
the parents
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