Behavorism

It appears that the philosophy behind behaviorism is being redefined. Behaviorism is now most beneficial only when used as a tutorial but the old operant conditioning of reinforcement of desirable behaviors and punishment for undesirable behaviors is no longer considered a valuable practice. I personally think that Behaviorism still has a valid place in the field of education and not just as a tutorial mechanism. I think many children of today do not have a clear understanding of what behaviors are acceptable and what behaviors are not acceptable in a classroom. I think it is important to teach and reinforce positive behaviors so that the children have a clear understanding of what is expected. I think that the word punishment should be changed to discipline. Discipline is really teaching not punishment. Behaviorism is still used in many classrooms but it appears that the trend seems to be away from this theory. Once again the pendulum in education is shifting. Why is that? Why must we always throw out the old theories and practices? Why must we always be seeking for the new and improved formula. Sometimes the old tried and true practices are the best.

Reinforcing Effort is a concept that is near and dear to my heart. I believe Effort is the most important factor in achievement (H.Pitler 2007). The amount of success achieved on any given task is directly related to the about of effort you have put forth. This is very evident in the classroom. Those students that put forth the effort to be successful students usually are successful students. Self efficacy is directly related to students achievements. Self efficacy is a person's level of belief in their ability to achieve. This idea plays a major role in a person's motivation. I never thought I'd meet a student I could not motivate but I have meet one this year. Life is tough when you have no self efficacy.