Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Exam

According to B.F. Skinner, what is the best way to alter students' behavior?

1. Ignoring undesirable behavior

2. Offering rewards for good behavior and punishing bad behavior

3. Using verbal reprimands consistently

4. Creating complex learning tasks to engage students

The correct answer is: Offering rewards for good behavior and punishing bad behavior

B.F. Skinner is known for his work in behaviorism, particularly the principles of operant conditioning, which emphasize how behavior can be modified through reinforcement and punishment. Offering rewards for good behavior and punishing bad behavior aligns directly with Skinner's theories. Positive reinforcement encourages desired behaviors by offering rewards, thereby increasing the likelihood that these behaviors will be repeated. On the other hand, administering punishments for undesirable behavior aims to decrease or eliminate those actions. This dual approach of using both reinforcement for positive behavior and consequences for negative behavior provides a structured framework for behavior modification that is both effective and systematic. In contrast, ignoring undesirable behavior may lead to its perpetuation, as behavior that goes unnoticed can continue without correction. Consistently using verbal reprimands can create a negative atmosphere and may not effectively lead to long-term behavior change, as students might become desensitized to the reprimands. Lastly, while creating complex learning tasks may engage students and foster a positive learning environment, it does not directly address behavior modification tactics as proposed by Skinner. Instead, it focuses more on cognitive engagement rather than behavioral management.