Edward Lee Thorndike
The principle stating that behaviors followed by satisfying consequences are more likely to be repeated.
What is the Law of Effect?
Skinner believed that behavior is shaped by consequences. A reward that increases the likelihood a behavior will be repeated is called this.
What is positive reinforcement?
Watson’s famous “Little Albert” experiment showed that emotions like fear could be learned through this process.
What is classical conditioning?
Critics argue that relying too heavily on extrinsic rewards in classrooms may discourage this essential trait in children, which educators want to nurture long-term.
What is intrinsic motivation?
According to Thorndike, children develop cognitive skills like problem-solving and reasoning through this process of trial-and-error and repeated practice.
What is connectionism (or stimulus-response learning)?
When a child learns to walk more steadily because they are cheered on for each step, Skinner would say this supports which area of development?
What is physical development?
According to Watson, when parents consistently respond with warmth, smiles, and comfort, children learn to associate caregivers with safety. This supports growth in what way?
What is building trust and secure emotional attachment?
A student earns extra recess for finishing work on time. This is an example of what behaviorist strategy that encourages repetition of good habits?
What is positive reinforcement?
When a caregiver praises a child for sharing a toy, Thorndike would say this shapes the child’s social-emotional development by reinforcing what?
What is positive social behavior (or kindness/sharing)?
When a child practices letters and gets praise each time, Skinner’s ideas suggest the child will stay motivated and improve in this area.
What is learning and remembering academic skills?
Watson believed that motor skills develop through repeated practice and reinforcement. For example, a toddler encouraged to stack blocks will strengthen this aspect of growth.
What is fine motor coordination?
This classroom tool, often used to encourage good behavior such as following directions or cleaning up, is a modern application of Behaviorist reinforcement.
What is a reward system?
Thorndike’s theories also apply to physical development. A toddler who keeps trying to kick a ball because their parent claps each time is learning through this method.
What is trial-and-error learning with positive reinforcement?
Skinner’s approach showed that consistent reinforcement doesn’t just teach behaviors—it also builds a child’s confidence by showing them their actions have this kind of effect.
What is impact on others and their environment?
Watson argued that children’s thinking and problem-solving are not innate but shaped by their experiences. Exposure to this helps them develop in their cognitive area.
What is stimulating environments?
Critics of strict Behaviorist approaches argue that focusing only on these two concepts can overlook broader educational goals, such as creativity, critical thinking, and self-regulation.
What are rewards and punishments?
The name of the theory Edward Lee Thorndike is most known for.
What is the theory of connectionism?
This psychologist, was known for his work on this and showed that children’s behaviors can be shaped through rewards and consequences.
What is operant conditioning?
This psychologist is often called this because he believed that children’s behavior is shaped entirely by their environment and experiences.
What is the father of behaviorism?
Behaviorist strategies, such as time-outs or removal of privileges, are often debated in classrooms today because they represent this type of reinforcement that decreases unwanted behavior.
What is negative reinforcement or punishment?