Reinforcing effort is, by its very nature, a behaviorist concept. We reinforce behaviors that we wish to see continued. Effort is a desirable behavior and is thus reinforced in the classroom. The idea of using data collection tools for students to track their own effort based on measurable criteria such as frequency of practice is a great way to promote self-reflection and responsibility while helping students to understand the true correlation between effort and results (Pitler, Hubbel, & Kuhn 2012).
Providing recognition is an example of a basic, external reward being presented in response to desired behavior. Featuring student work on a class web site or blog is an example of giving students recognition for meeting a goal.
Assigning homework is a good behavioral strategy if it is done correctly. Rather than traditional practice such as re-reading notes or texts, a student will benefit from interactive practice such as quizzing, rehearsal, or self-assessment (Pitler Hubbel, & Kuhn 2012). The key is to make sure there is feedback as the student is completing the homework. Microsoft Word has components such as focused search capabilities, grade-level writing check, and spellcheck.
Providing practice can give great behavioral reinforcement as well, if there is feedback. Web sites such as Starfall and PBS Zoom can "teach students as they go" through the site. Students are reinforced for correct answers. Their responses are shaped as they practice.
Behaviorism is used every day in classroom environments. When using behaviorism to increase learning, a teacher must use care to select technology that truly reinforces the goals set for the learner.
References
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E. R., & Kuhn, M. (2012). Using technology with classroom instruction that
works (2nd ed.). Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Orey, M. (2010, January 1). Emerging Perspectives on Learning, Teaching, and Technology.
Retrieved November 6, 2014, from
http://www.textbookequity.org/oct/Textbooks/Orey_Emergin_Perspectives_Learning.pdf
Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteYour post was very thorough and provided many examples of how teachers can use technology to reinforce desirable behaviors. I agree with your statement that the key to homework for teachers is providing valuable feedback. Have you found effective ways to evaluate student homework? I think that feedback makes the homework meaningful and worthwhile, but it is difficult to touch base with every student for every assignment. Teaching self-assessment might be a helpful strategy with monitoring student understanding. I do believe that homework is necessary for students to practice their skills and reinforce concepts discussed in the classroom.
Jamie -
DeleteI feel that I have not found effective ways to evaluate student homework. I have tried different strategies such as going over the homework together as a class when students arrive, grading it later on my own, and honestly, doing nothing at all and just relying on the parent interaction to have provided them valuable practice. The most beneficial of those three seems to have been the first option. That way, no matter how much support they received at home, they did get guidance and feedback at school. However, taking up class time with anything "extra" that does not "help us cover all the material before spring testing" is tough to do. I dislike teaching with that as my goal. If I return to the classroom I would like to change my outlook, although I am not sure exactly how to do that.
I also grade with the class. This makes me to be able to go over 26 students homework and see where I need to reteach. I agree it is hard to take up classroom time for this, but i also think you can use this time as a informal assessment. As long as you don't take up too much time grading with students can be valuable.
DeleteWhat a great idea to publish work on a website or blog as a reward. This helps bring in some motivation as well as a great reward. Other students and classrooms can then see the work and comment and appreciate it. I love this idea. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed reading your post. Thank you for all of the different strategy ideas that you have provided. I really enjoyed using your idea about featuring student work on a class website or blog. This really can be a reward for students. I also agree with you that homework and practice can be a good behavioral strategy as well as provide good feedback for both teachers and students.