Difficulty: Medium

Average Score: 62%

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 impact of external stimuli on learning, making it inherently teacher-centered. Instructional practices aligned with behaviorism often utilize reinforcement and extrinsic motivators to shape and modify student behavior.

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

This statement aligns more closely with constructivist approaches, which prioritize student engagement in problem-solving and critical thinking within real-world contexts. Behaviorism, in contrast, focuses on direct instruction and reinforcement rather than encouraging exploration in novel situations.

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

Self-directed learning and scaffolding are key components of constructivism and progressive education, where learners take an active role in their education. Behaviorism does not emphasize self-direction, as it relies on external guidance and reinforcement to shape behavior, making this statement inconsistent with behaviorist principles.

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

This statement accurately reflects behaviorist instructional practices, which are characterized by a focus on the teacher as the primary source of knowledge and the use of extrinsic rewards to motivate students. The behaviorist approach values measurable outcomes and direct instruction, making this the most representative statement.

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

While this statement suggests an emphasis on effective methods, it lacks the specificity needed to identify behaviorism. Many educational philosophies prioritize practical effectiveness, but behaviorism distinctly emphasizes the role of external reinforcement and observable behavior changes, rather than just practical outcomes.

Conclusion

Behaviorism is fundamentally characterized by teacher-centered practices that rely on extrinsic motivators to shape student behavior. The accurate representation of behaviorist instructional practices highlights the role of the teacher in directing learning and using reinforcement strategies. Other choices reflect alternative educational philosophies, such as constructivism, which focus on student-centered learning and intrinsic motivation. Understanding these distinctions is key to effectively applying different educational theories in practice.

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