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The Best Way to Produce a Desired Outcome
What is the best way to teach material that result in increased knowledge and or a change in behavior? According to B.F. Skinner’s theory, learning and or behavior change takes place as a result of reinforcement that is pleasant, satisfying, and that reduces tension and stress. Skinner’s theory is based on Operant Conditioning. Operant conditioning includes several concepts. These concepts are (1) reinforcement, (2) shaping, (3) aversive stimuli, and (4) behavior modification. If these concepts of operant conditioning occur, the probability of a person learning material and being able to recall and apply what they have learned is highly likely. (1)(2)(3)
Burrhus Frederic Skinner was born March 20, 1904 and died August 18, 1990. He was born in Susquehanna Pennsylvania. His upbringing was old fashioned and hard-working. Skinner was active and out going. He loved building things and loved school. He received his B.A. degree in English from Hamilton College in upstate New York. He did not fit in well in this school for several reasons. The main reason for not fitting in was the fact that he was an atheist in a school that required daily chapel attendance.
Skinner made several unsuccessful attempts at becoming a writer. After several attempts he decided to go back to school. He attended Harvard University, where he received his master’s degree in Psychology in 1930. He furthered his education by obtaining his doctorate degree in 1931. After graduation he remained at Harvard University conducting research until 1936. He then moved to Minneapolis to teach at the University of Minnesota where he met and married Yvonne Blue. Together they had two daughters.
In 1945, he became the chairman of the Psychology department at Indiana University. He remained at Indiana University until 1948 when he was invited back to Harvard University. While at Harvard, he...
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