What is an example of an educational practice that aligns with the principles of behaviorism?

Direct instruction is an educational practice that aligns with the principles of behaviorism because it emphasizes clear, structured teaching methods focused on observable behaviors and specific learning outcomes. Within this framework, teachers provide explicit guidance and reinforcement to shape students' knowledge and skills. This approach often involves demonstrating how to solve problems or master new content, followed by practice and assessments that reinforce the desired behaviors.

Behaviorism, a theory rooted in the works of psychologists like B.F. Skinner, asserts that learning is a change in behavior resulting from the interaction with the environment. Direct instruction uses this principle by systematically presenting material and providing feedback, which can help students develop mastery through repetition and reinforcement.

In contrast, self-directed learning, group discussions, and project-based learning emphasize different aspects of the learning process. Self-directed learning prioritizes learner autonomy and intrinsic motivation, while group discussions foster collaborative learning and social interaction. Project-based learning encourages active exploration and real-world application of knowledge, which moves beyond the behaviorist focus on observable behaviors.