Operant Conditioning Essay -- B.F. Skinner Behavior Papers

Operant ConditioningOverview The theory of B.F. Skinner is based upon the image that learning is a function of change in overt behavior. Changes in behavior are the result of an individuals response to events (stimuli) that occur in the environment. A response produces a consequence such as defining a word, hitting a ball, or solving a math problem. When a particular Stimulus-Response (S-R) pattern is reinforced (rewarded), the individual is conditioned to respond. The distinctive feature of speech of operant conditioning relative to previous forms of behaviorism (e.g., Thorndike, Hull) is that the organism end emit responses instead of only eliciting response due to an external stimulus. advantage is the key element in Skinners S-R theory. A reinforcer is whateverthing that strengthens the desired response. It could be verbal praise, a corking grade or a emotion of increased accomplishment or satisfaction. The theory also covers negative reinforcers -- any stimulus that resul ts in the increased frequency of a response when it is pull back (different from adversive stimuli -- punishment -- which result in reduced responses). A great voltaic pile of attention was given to schedules of reinforcement (e.g. interval versus ratio) and their effects on establishing and maintaining behavior. unity of the distinctive aspects of Skinners theory is that it attempted to provide behavioral explanations for a unspecific range of cognitive phenomena. For example, Skinner explained drive (motivation) in terms of going and reinforcement schedules. Skinner (1957) tried to account for verbal learning and wording within the operant conditioning paradigm, although this effort was strongly rejected by linguists and psycholinguists. Skinner (1971) de... ... as well as teaching and instructional progress. believe the suggestions of this theory for the development of programmed instruction 1. Practice should take the form of question-answer frames that cave in the stud ent to the subject in steady steps. 2. Guarantee the learner makes a response for every frame and also receives immediate advice. 3. Arrange the worry of the questions so the response is always correct and thats why there is a positive back up. 4. Ensure that a good presentation in the lesson is paired with secondary support such a verbal praise, rewards, and good grades. Behavior that is positively supported will reoccur constant support especially effective. Information should be presented in small amounts so that responses can be reinforced. Reinforcements will simplify across the same stimulus generalization loose secondary conditioning.