Motivation and Behavioral Learning Theory

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Motivationand Behavioral Learning Theory

• By Mrs. Erin Oakleaf/Kissinger

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What is Motivation?

• Motivation is an internal process that activates,
  guides, and maintains behavior over time.

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Motivation and Behavioral Learning Theory

• In behavioral learning theory, motivation is a
  consequence of reinforcement.
• The two main types of reinforcement are rewards
  and punishment, or positive and negative
  reinforcers.

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Negative Reinforcers

• Negative reinforcers are things in which once it
  has been done, the behavior stops.
• Examples of negative reinforcers may be
  detention, having to stay inside for recess, or
  it may be something that we do not normally
  consider to be negative like the teachers
  attention.

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Positive Reinforcers

• Positive reinforcers are things in which after it
  is done, the behavior continues.
• Three Types of Positive Reinforcers
• Social Reinforcers-(praise, attention, smiles)
• Privileges-(free time, eating lunch with the
  teacher)
• Tangibles-(stickers, candy, toys, tokens)

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Effective Praise

• Is delivered contingently.
• Specifies the particulars of the accomplishment.
• Shows spontaneity, variety, and other signs of
  credibility.

• Rewards attainment of specified performance
  criteria.
• Provides information to the students about their
  competence or the value of their accomplishments.

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Effective Praise Continued

• Helps students toward better appreciation of
  their own behavior and thinking about problem
  solving.
• Uses students prior accomplishments as context
  for current ones.

• Is given for recognition of success at difficult
  tasks.
• Attributes success to effort and ability.
• Focuses students attention on their own
  behavior.

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Effective Praise Continued

• Fosters appreciation of behavior after the
  process is completed.

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The Problem With Rewards

• Rewards are punishment.
• Rewards destroy classroom relationships.
• Rewards do not deal effectively with classroom
  problems.

• Rewards erode intrinsic motivaton.
• Rewards distort the focus of learning.

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Implications for Teachers

• The first job of the teacher in a given situation
  is to decide if a reward or punishment is
  suitable.
• Next, if the teacher decides to use a reward or
  punishment he/she must decide on an appropriate
  one.
• Finally, if at first you dont succeed, try, try
  again!!

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Cool Websites for Teachers

• Motivational Quotes
• Ideas for Motivating Students