Behaviourism

Overview

Behaviourism is one of the most frequently tested areas in Child Development and Pedagogy for TN TET. This learning theory focuses on observable behaviour rather than internal mental processes, arguing that all learning results from interactions with the environment. For TN TET, you must understand three foundational theories: Pavlov's classical conditioning, Skinner's operant conditioning, and Thorndike's connectionism.

These theories directly inform classroom practices—reward systems, drill exercises, habit formation, and behaviour management strategies all stem from behaviourist principles. Expect 2–4 questions on this topic, typically asking you to identify theorists, match experiments with conclusions, or apply principles to classroom scenarios. Mastering the distinctions between classical and operant conditioning is essential.

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Key Concepts

• **Learning is behaviour change**: Behaviourists define learning as a relatively permanent change in observable behaviour resulting from experience—not internal thoughts or feelings.

• **Stimulus-Response (S-R) connection**: All behaviour can be explained as responses to environmental stimuli; learning strengthens these S-R bonds.

• **Classical conditioning (Pavlov)**: Learning occurs when a neutral stimulus becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus, eventually triggering the same response on its own.

• **Operant conditioning (Skinner)**: Behaviour is shaped by its consequences—reinforcement increases behaviour, punishment decreases it.

• **Connectionism (Thorndike)**: Learning is the formation of connections between stimuli and responses through trial and error, governed by specific laws.

• **Role of environment**: Behaviourism emphasises that the external environment, not heredity or internal drives, primarily determines learning.

• **Teacher as controller**: In behaviourist classrooms, the teacher controls stimuli, provides reinforcement, and shapes student behaviour systematically.

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Formulas / Key Facts

| Theorist | Experiment | Core Principle | |----------|------------|----------------| | Pavlov | Dog salivation experiment | Classical conditioning—learning through association | | Skinner | Skinner Box (rats/pigeons) | Operant conditioning—learning through consequences | | Thorndike | Puzzle Box (cats) | Trial-and-error learning; Law of Effect |

### Pavlov's Classical Conditioning Terms

• **UCS (Unconditioned Stimulus)**: Food → naturally triggers response