The question asks for the best illustration of linking learning theories to instructional strategies for large groups in a formal setting.
Programmed Learning and Operant Conditioning
Skinner's Operant Conditioning is a learning theory based on reinforcement. Behaviors followed by positive consequences are more likely to be repeated.
Programmed learning packages are instructional materials designed using these principles. They typically involve breaking down information into small steps, providing immediate feedback, and reinforcing correct responses.
This strategy is highly effective for:
- Large groups: It allows for standardized instruction delivery to many learners simultaneously or sequentially.
- Formal settings: The structured nature fits well within classrooms, lectures, or training environments where systematic instruction is provided.
The reinforcement mechanism (e.g., immediate confirmation of a correct answer) keeps learners engaged and progressing through the material efficiently, making it suitable for managing large numbers of students in a structured educational context.
Evaluating Other Options
- Reciprocal peer tutoring (Vygotsky): While effective, it emphasizes social interaction and is generally better suited for smaller groups where students can actively tutor each other.
- Mastery learning modules (Bloom): Bloom's taxonomy focuses on cognitive levels, and mastery learning aims for high achievement. Modules can be used formally, but the core concept often involves individual pacing or specific feedback loops that might be challenging to scale perfectly for very large groups without additional infrastructure.
- Experiential project work (Kolb): Kolb's cycle focuses on hands-on experience and reflection. This method, especially when done in small groups as specified, is less suited for directly addressing a large group in a formal setting as the primary instructional strategy.
Therefore, programmed learning packages based on Skinner's Operant Conditioning best represent a strategy applicable to large, formal learning environments.
Important Questions from Learning Theories and Instructional Strategies - Teaching
- Which of the following are correctly paired ?
(1) The Garcia Effect-Conditioned taste aversion
(2) Operant Conditioning-Elicited behaviour
(3) Classical Conditioning- emitted behaviour
(4) Shaping-Teaching animals new behaviour - The operant conditioning theory of Learning was proposed by
- Match the items of List - I with the items of List - II. Select the correct response from the answer codes given below :Codes :
List - I List - II (a) Latent learning (i) Learning a response to terminate an aversive stimulus. (b) Cognitive learning (ii) Occurrence of learning is not evident in behaviour until later. (c) Escape learning (iii) A change in the way of processing informations as a result of experiences. (d) Avoidance learning (iv) Learning a response to avoid an aversive stimulus - Arrange the following stages of acquisition of skills as given by Seymour :
I. Learning the sequence of activities.
II. Using information more efficiently.
III. Structuring sensory-motor patterns.
IV. Determining the sensory channel for each item of activity.
V. Attaining the right set in the sensory channel.
VI. Diminishing conscious attention.
Codes : - The theory that emphasizes imitation or observational learning is called :
