B.F. Skinner's Theories on Discipline in the Classroom

B.F. Skinner's theories on discipline in the classroom have helped to mold the way teachers instill discipline in their students for decades. His theories were not directed at classroom behavior, but his findings have influenced and led the way in many classroom discipline methods since the 1960s (Charles & Senter, 2004). This essay will discuss the impact of B.F. Skinner's theories on discipline in the classroom.

Behavior Modification

Skinner wrote many articles and essays on "how our voluntary actions are influenced by what happens to us immediately after we perform a given act" (Charles & Senter, 2004, pp. 33). These papers led to the theory of behavior modification which is used everywhere in the educational field. Behavior modification refers to the use of reinforcement in order to shape the behavior of a student.

Constant Reinforcement

Skinner noted in many of his works that "much if not most of our voluntary behavior is shaped as we receive reinforcement immediately after we perform an act" ( Charles & Senter, 2004, pp. 45). This theory led teachers to use constant reinforcement as a form of discipline in the classroom. This type of reinforcement allowed students to learn new desired ideas, rules, and skills. This type of discipline must be done every time a student does something correct (Charles & Senter, 2004).

Intermittent Reinforcement

After rules and skills are established a teacher will then need to rely on intermittent reinforcement in order to remain a level of discipline in the classroom. Since the behavior is established the need for reinforcement lessens. The use of reinforcing stimuli is only needed for discipline occassionally (Charles & Senter, 2004).

Reinforcing Stimuli

In order to maintain discipline in the classroom according to Skinner's findings the use of reinforcing stimuli is necessary. Some examples of this type of reinforcement "knowledge of results, peer approval, awards and free time, and smiles, nods, and praise from the teacher" (Charles & Skinner, 2004, pp. 34). This type of positive reinforcement has been used for decades in the classroom as a form of rewards for discipline.

Conclusion

Skinner's theories on how humans react to reinforcing stimuli has played a large role in the education and discipline of students in the classroom. Although Skinner had no intentions on having an impact on education his theories have been popular and utilized for many years. Reinforcement is a positive way to discipline students, and it is a helpful tool in the goal of classroom discipline.

Reference:

Charles, C. M., & Senter, G. W. (2004). Building Classroom Discipline (8th Edition) (8 ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.

Effective Tips for Monitoring Students in the Classroom

 

Learning effective tips for monitoring students in the classroom can have a huge impact on the learning environment. All teachers must be able to monitor the learning and comprehension of students in the classroom. This article will provide teachers with several effective tips for monitoring students in the classroom.

Monitoring a student's progress in the classroom can be tricky because there are so many different types of students and classes. Making sure to consider the work assigned and the interaction of the students in the classroom are effective tips for monitoring classroom progress.

Independent Work

During independent work in the classroom students most be monitored in ways that will not disrupt the concentration of the class. Using signals for students to communicate that they need help or are done with the assignment is important to maintain focus and quiet during independent work. Folded hands can mean the work is complete and holding a pencil up can mean help is needed. A student can also stand at the teacher's desk if he needs help. Another important part of monitoring students during independent work is walking around the classroom. This will allow you to see how a student is progressing. IT will also allow you to give individual students help and encouragement.

Group Work

Group work is another time in the classroom where students must be monitored effectively. During this type of assignment students can easily fall of track and lose sight of the assigned work. In order to monitor students during group work a teacher must assign students specific tasks in the group. This will provide students with the responsibility they need to stay focus. It is also imperative to make sure students are paying attention and concentrating on the assignment by asking the students questions about the task at hand. These techniques are an effective way to monitor students in the classroom.

Interaction and Enthusiasm

Another effective tip for monitoring students in a classroom is by making sure the students are interactive and enthusiastic. In order to monitor the students understanding of homework you should discuss the past assignments before leading into the new assignments. This will show a correlation between both lessons, refresh the work in the minds of the students, and monitor their comprehension.

It is important to be aware of these effective tips for monitoring students in the classroom if you want to be a successful teacher. Monitoring students is important because it tracks their understanding and progress.