What is 'behaviorism' as it relates to educational theory?

Behaviorism, as it relates to educational theory, is fundamentally about the observable aspects of learning rather than internal cognitive processes or emotional factors. It posits that all behaviors are acquired through interaction with the environment, and learning occurs as a result of responses to external stimuli. This theory highlights the significance of reinforcement and punishment in shaping behavior, suggesting that positive reinforcement encourages the repetition of desired behaviors while negative reinforcement or punishment may deter unwanted behaviors.

In instructional design, behaviorism informs practices such as clear goal setting, the use of assessments to evaluate learner performance, and the application of rewards to reinforce successful skills acquisition. This perspective contrasts sharply with theories that emphasize internal cognitive processes or collaborative learning, which are not central to the behaviorist approach. Therefore, the focus on observable behaviors and their connections to specific stimuli succinctly encapsulates the essence of behaviorism within the context of educational theory.