The Importance of Behaviorism in Education: Why Student Performance Matters
I recently received an email from a professor in the California community questioning the role of behaviorism in teaching and learning, particularly in the context of emerging technologies like ChatGpt. The professor raised an important point: if AI can replicate expected behaviors, what is the significance of traditional teaching methods?
Behaviorism goes beyond simple output; it focuses on the conditions that shape behavior. While AI tools like ChatGpt can generate output, the key lies in understanding who is exhibiting the behavior, the circumstances surrounding it, and how it evolves over time. It is essential to consider how students interact with these tools and whether they are actively engaged in a learning process that fosters growth and skill development.
Behaviorism does not diminish the value of student output; instead, it emphasizes the importance of ensuring that this output reflects true learning. The ultimate question is whether a student’s behavior has changed for the better, whether they have become more professional, made informed decisions, or responded effectively to challenges.
In online education, where faculty may not always have direct observation of students, behaviorism offers a unique advantage. By examining student submissions, responses to feedback, and changes in behavior over time, educators can gain valuable insights into student learning and progress.
While AI tools like ChatGpt can aid in tasks such as generating answers, it is crucial to consider how students utilize these tools. Merely replicating answers without engaging in critical thinking or skill development does not constitute true learning. It is the responsibility of educators to design tasks that promote meaningful behavior change and skill acquisition.
Behaviorism does not reject the use of AI; rather, it encourages educators to leverage technology to shape student behavior and foster the development of essential skills. By designing tasks that require students to apply, analyze, and evaluate information, educators can ensure that learning is occurring at a deep level.
In conclusion, behaviorism in education is essential in the AI era as it focuses on observable changes in student behavior. By prioritizing performance and competence over mere completion, educators can create environments that facilitate meaningful learning experiences. Ultimately, behaviorism offers clarity in assessing student learning and guides educators in designing tasks that promote true skill development and growth.