Critical Thinking - Michael Alvarez - Essay Example

Critical Thinking - Michael Alvarez Critical Thinking - Michael Alvarez A learning theory that can assist Michael Alvarez in learning is the behaviorism theory. The behaviorism theory joins elements of methodology and philosophy to enable a student to learn (Malott, 2008). The primary principle of behaviorism is that psychology must concern itself with the observable behavior of individuals, not with unobservable events that occur in their minds. Alvarez’s educator needs to deal with his observable behaviors in order to make him learn (Malott, 2008).
In order to improve Alvarez behavior and participation in the classroom, it is essential for his educators to make him feel appreciated in the classroom. Students tend not to concentrate on their studies when they feel like aliens in a classroom (MacCorquodale, 1970). Therefore, it is essential for his educators to put him in a class where a majority of the learners are ELLs. This will improve his chances of learning.
Students need rewards in order to appreciate what they are learning (MacCorquodale, 1970). Therefore, in order to make Alvarez complete his daily assignments, it is essential for his educators to frequently reward, not only Alvarez, but every student who complete their assignment successfully. Rewards not only refer to material things as, at times, psychological appreciation might help (Skinner, 1957). This will, in reality, gives Alvarez the feeling that he is doing the right thing by taking part in class activities.
Michael’s parents, as well as his siblings, are the people who should positively shape Alvarez attitude. They should act in a manner that will enable Alvarez to gain respect of others (Skinner, 1957). Charity begins at home, and the way Alvarez family members behave is how he will behave. They should stress to their son the importance of education and try to support him whenever necessary.
References
MacCorquodale, K. (1970). On Chomskys review of skinners verbal behavior. Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior 13(1): 83–99.
Malott, W. (2008). Principles of behavior. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall.
Skinner, B.F. (1957). Verbal behavior. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall. Read More