Behavioral Learning Theory

Having expected Behavioral Learning Theory to be far and away the least useful of the learning theories, I have come away from this unit pleasantly surprised. When I thought about Behaviorism previously words like "antiquated" or "incomplete" came to mind. However, I was surprised to find that the principles of Behaviorism were very relevant to my own life experiences.

I spent some time as a Behavior Technician for children with ADHD and Autism. During my time at the clinic I was introduced to the specific ways that learning could be facilitated with these kids. In general, they lacked the ability to understand nuance, or recognize social cues. You had to be extremely direct, and quick to supply reinforcement for desired behavior. In this way, concepts from behaviorism like reinforcement schedules, chaining, and the pairing of stimulus was extremely relevant. Similarly, most of these children were non-verbal, and the only way for Behavior Technicians to conclude that a patient had 'mastered' any given skill was to see clear behavior changes. It was only when a patient had achieved 'mastery' of a skill area like using the "I want" button on their communication devices to request items routinely and independently, that I would move them to the next level. This could look something like using the "I want" button in tandem with an additional - more complex - request like "Help" or "Open container". I came to realize after gaining a more comprehensive understanding of Behaviorism that I had been using basic Behaviorism instructional concepts like Mastery Learning, positive/negative reinforcement, scaffolding, shaping, and chaining.

Despite the surprising relevance of Behaviorism to my life experiences there are still some areas that I find to be lacking in this learning theory. The most glaring of which is the complete lack of acknowledgment of internal processes. Outside of the very unique environment I experienced as a Behavior Technician, I find myself disappointed by the the way this theory overlooks the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and higher-order cognitive skills, which are essential for long-term learning and academic success. Additionally, I do not believe that all learning occurs as a reaction to external reinforcement and punishments. I find that Cognitivism and Social Learning Theory do well to fill these gaps that exist within Behaviorism.

Overall, there are undeniable truths to the Behaviorist approach. Classical and Operant conditioning techniques are extremely useful for establishing good habits, and learning new positive associations. Additionally, I like the idea that human and non-human animals have a similar capacity for learning, and learning in the same ways. So, while incomplete in its breadth of how learning and knowledge can be acquired, I have found myself unable to deny this theories potential for extensive positive application to learning enviornments.