Unit 2 - Skinner's Operant Conditioning Theory

Question 1

What is Skinner’s theory called?

Answer 1

Operant conditioning theory

Question 2

What did Skinner theorise?

Answer 2

Believed that behaviour can be influenced by positive and negative reinforcement
Adults can use this to encourage desired behaviours and discourage undesirable ones
This technique helps children understand the connection between their actions and the resulting outcomes
Most humans learn through exploring the environment and then draw conclusions based on the consequences of their behaviour

Question 3

What are the 3 groups of consequences according to Skinner?

Answer 3

Positive reinforcement (make us likely to repeat behaviour)
Negative reinforcement (Make us repeat behaviour to stop unpleasant things from happening)
Punishment (Make us stop repeating behaviours)

Question 4

How does Skinner’s theory link to educational practice?

Answer 4

Rewards are often given for behaviour, but also for achievement
Star charts are often used to improve behaviour of individuals and groups
Praise is given to encourage behaviour and also to encourage effort
Some behaviours are ignored so as not to reinforce

Question 5

What are some criticisms of Skinner’s theory?

Answer 5

Children should be encouraged to learn because they enjoy it rather than for a reward
Research suggest that self motivation I more effective in the long term than short term praise and rewards
It assumes that children are passive learners and cannot take responsibility for their own learning

Question 6

What type of approach does Skinner have?

Answer 6

Behaviourist approach