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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
A 3 page research paper that discusses Skinner's theory of reinforcement and its application in high school classrooms. Bibliography lists 5 sources.
Page Count:
3 pages (~225 words per page)
File: KL9_khSkinrein.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
terms of occurrences or factors that are external to the subject.1 According to Skinner, the forces in an environment that serve as reinforcement can be identified by observing their effect
on behavior. In other words, reinforcement refers to those factors that strengthen a particular behavior.2 Punishment, as the opposite of reinforcement, is thought to weaken a behavior, but Skinner maintains
that punishment, in the long term, does not have this effect, as "punishment does not actually eliminate behavior from a repertoire."3 A teacher can utilize Skinners theory in order
to shape positive classroom behaviors that increase student learning. The first step in this process is to select the behaviors that the teacher wishes to strengthen.4 The next step is
to select appropriate reinforcers that will motivate students to maintain these behaviors.5 In the lower grades, token reinforcement systems are often effective, but these reinforcers are considered developmentally appropriate for
middle and high school students.6 However, other reinforcement strategies are recommended, such as negotiating a contingency contract with the student. This
contract states both the desired classroom behaviors as well as the consequences for both compliance and deviation from the contracts contents.7 A common error in using contingency contracts is that
reinforcers are designated to be the activities that teachers assume will motivate high school students; however, adolescent tastes can be very individual. Therefore, it is recommended that reinforcers, i.e., rewards,
should be individualized for each student.8 Reinforcement interventions, such as contingency contracts, are often used with students who exhibit problem behaviors. Some teachers have asked, "Why should students who are
engaging in problem behavior be targeted to receive extra acknowledgment and reinforcement?"9 It is precisely because these students feel compelled to act out to show their frustration that they need
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