Republic of the Philippines

Western Philippines University

A STRONG PARTNER FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

COURSE: Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration

SUBJECT: EDUC 301: Philosophical Foundation of Administration
TOPIC: Reflection on Behaviorism and Education
DISCUSSANT: DIANA L. MARCELO
PROFESSOR: DR. LOVINA A. HAMORA

BEHAVIORISM AND EDUCATION

Behaviorism is a learning theory that only focuses on objectively observable

behaviors and discounts any independent activities of the mind. Behavior theorists
define learning as nothing more than the acquisition of new behavior based on
environmental conditions. An example of behaviorism is when teachers reward
their class or certain students with a party or special treat at the end of the week for
good behavior throughout the week. The same concept is used with punishments.
The teacher can take away certain privileges if the student misbehaves. Behavioral
theories can help facilitate learning as a form of classroom management. An
example of this is when teachers reward their class or certain students with bonus
grades or special treat at the end of the month for doing well in class for the whole
month. The same concept is used with punishments for unacceptable behavior in
class. The consequences that reinforce the desired behavior are arranged to follow
the desired behavior such as studying or preparing for a test and get a good grade. 
The new behavioral pattern can be repeated so it becomes automatic.  The change
in behavior of the learner signifies that learning has occurred.  Teachers use
behavioral principles when they reward or punish student behaviors. Drills, rote
work, repetitive practice, bonus points or giving an incentive to do more,
participation points or giving an incentive to participate, verbal reinforcement like
saying “good job” and establishing rules are examples and applications of
behavioral principles to manage behaviors and promote learning because through
these learning activities, teachers are able to help students to recall basic facts,
learn automatic responses and master performing tasks.

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Republic of the Philippines
Western Philippines University
A STRONG PARTNER FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

I believe that we are the one that has control on our behavior. I think it is not
right to put all of the blame to our environment for our problems or circumstances
as a result of our behavior. We can choose how we behave. I believe that our
Creator gave all of us a free will for us to decide and choose what is right from
wrong. Although behaviorist approaches are helpful in learning, unlearning and
relearning new things, I consider the power of the mind has much more influence
in human actions than behaviorism. A wise man once said that one’s action is a
product of one’s own thoughts.

Nonetheless, I appreciate all the positive things that we can get from
behaviorism such as clear predictions are provided when behaviorist approaches
are used. In other words, explanations can be tested scientifically and with
evidence to support. Behaviorist approaches can be applied in real life such as in
therapy, teaching, learning and in classroom management. Behaviorist approaches
also put emphasis on objective measurement. There are many experiments to
support theories since behaviorist approaches focus on measurable and observable
data.

As a summary, behavioral theories emphasize the role of

environmental factors in influencing behavior with little regard to the importance
of innate or inherited factors. This amounts basically to a focus on learning.
Behavior theorists define learning as nothing more than the acquisition of new
behavior based on environmental conditions. Human behavior is learned, thus all
behavior can be unlearned and new behaviors learned in its place. Behaviorism is
concerned mainly with the observable and measurable features of human behavior.
Therefore, when behaviors become undesirable, they can be unlearned. Indeed,
behaviorism has an impact in our everyday lives and in education as well. As
educators, we should know the importance of behaviorism in teaching and learning
process to promote and improve the learning of our students.

Rafols Road, Sta. Monica, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan 5300

www.wpu.edu.ph ● wpu.edu@gmail.com ● Mobile: +639193836791