Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 100%

Which of the following statements is most representative of instructional practices associated with behaviorism?

Rationale

Practices are teacher-centered and based on extrinsic motivators.

Behaviorism emphasizes observable behaviors and the use of reinforcement to shape learning, often leading to teacher-centered instructional practices. This approach relies heavily on external rewards and punishments to motivate students, making it distinct from other educational philosophies that may prioritize intrinsic motivation and student-directed learning.

A (Practices are based on problem-solving activities in novel situations.) YOUR ANSWER

This choice reflects a constructivist approach, where learning is facilitated through exploration and problem-solving in new contexts. Unlike behaviorism, which focuses on behavior modification through reinforcement, this method encourages students to engage actively with material, promoting critical thinking and creativity instead.

B (Practices are based on self-directed learning, problem-solving skills, and scaffolding.) YOUR ANSWER

This statement aligns with constructivist and cognitive theories rather than behaviorism. Self-directed learning emphasizes student agency and intrinsic motivation, while scaffolding provides support tailored to individual learning needs, contrasting sharply with the behaviorist focus on teacher-directed instruction and external incentives.

C (Practices are teacher-centered and based on extrinsic motivators.) CORRECT

Behaviorism fundamentally revolves around the role of the teacher as the primary authority figure, directing learning and using extrinsic rewards (such as grades or praise) to reinforce desired behaviors. This aligns perfectly with the core tenets of behaviorist instructional practices, making it the most representative statement among the options.

D (Practices are derived from what works in practical situations.) YOUR ANSWER

While this statement suggests an evidence-based approach, it does not specifically capture the essence of behaviorism. Although behaviorists often employ strategies that yield effective results in practice, the focus is on the systematic application of reinforcement and observable behaviors rather than general practical effectiveness.

Conclusion

Behaviorism is characterized by teacher-centered practices that utilize extrinsic motivators to influence student behavior and learning outcomes. Among the options given, choice C best encapsulates this philosophy, as it highlights the reliance on external rewards and the primary role of the teacher in guiding learning. Other choices emphasize student-centered approaches that diverge from the principles of behaviorism, illustrating the distinction between various educational paradigms.

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