Instructional strategies in the classroom should mandate and reflect the learning styles of students. Furthermore, behaviorism offers a defined perspective on how learning occurs and how teaching impacts that process. Orey (Laureate Education, 2010) states that reinforcement of the correct behaviors is more powerful than punishment. What does this mean for a 21st Century Classroom teacher? An interesting read, excerpt - Reinforcing Effort from the book Using Technology in the Classroom, discussed the importance of having students to recognize effort and through this strategy, students’ attitudes and beliefs about learning can be changed. For example, a struggling Math student may tell the teacher “I do not like Math because I am not good at it.” Moreover, a student’s background or home life can play a factor in less effort. However, with high stakes testing, students need to achieve topics and units of study. . According to the authors of the book, research indicates that students can change their beliefs and make a connection between effort and achievement (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K., 2007) . One way to enforce effort is through an effort rubric, kind of a like a self-assessment and reflection about effort put into the topic. Spreadsheets can also be created as a visual tool to help the student recognize shortcomings or advancements and mindset changes. Another idea would be to survey the students before the unit to see how they view the topic of study. After the unit, give them the same survey to let them see the difference in their thinking. As an educator in my master’s class, I am required to reflect before the class, during the middle of the class, and at the end. This strategy has definitely worked for me!
When a teacher hears the words “homework and practice”, reinforcement of skills is most likely what comes to mind. When a parent hears “homework and practice”, sometimes, it is an unsettling feeling. Busy work or frustration often results. Parents and students should know that homework should not be extra work, but an extension of the classroom. One great advantage that students have today is technology. There are many sites available to help students with practice in all subjects. On my teacher web, I have several sites listed for student help. I also have enrichment type projects. Some of my parents want their children doing more at home with academic help and they do not have the resources or ideas to implement and foster this yearning to learn more. Through my teacher webpage, students have opportunities to advance knowledge through webquests, projects, technology journey’s and explorations.
Reference:
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Behaviorist Learning Theory. [ Webcast]. BridgingLearning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore MD: Author.
