Thursday, December 10, 2009

Final Theory

Here is my Theory Project for our final in Learning Theory, EDUC 633.

It is a PDF of a book I wrote based on the theories of B.F. Skinner.

ENJOY!

Reflection:

I approached this assignment a few different ways...First, I began to think about things which I knew how to do,
mainly, run a marathon. So, I was going to go with that topic. Then I had to think about B.F. Skinner and how he
would have taught the topic. The only reinforcements I could think of would come from within, since running a marathon
is so self-motivated. Yes, you could have a coach who could positively and negatively reinforce, but that's not always
going to happen.

So, from there I thought about teaching a child good vs. poor choices. I began to explore unique tools online that we had not
used yet (and that were new to me) and that's when I found TikaTak to write children's books (and potentially publish them).
I thought this would be great since I wanted to teach a child anyone. The book is the lesson. Once I got rolling on the book
it all flew out. The program was good. There are some changes I would make (givemore options for more creativity), but it did
what it said it would do!

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Oh, the theory


So, I've been plugging away on many projects and discussions about learning theorists. Slowly they are all coming together and I'm seeing the connection between them. Lately I've been intrigued by Bandura and his combination of Behaviorism (Skinner) and Cognitive styles. It's interesting to see some theories bridge the gap between others.

I must say, to be completely honest here, that Skinner is still a bit dry and boring for me. I understand Behaviorism and it's importance and his significance in the community, but it's still a bit boring. But, boring doesn't always mean that it's irrelevant or you don't need excitement all the time!!!