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A behavioral perspective on college teaching
1Psychology Department, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, USA.
The Behavior Analyst
|April 6, 2012
Summary
Effective college teaching uses mild aversive control, primarily through frequent, well-designed exams, to encourage student study behavior. This strategy helps students build valuable knowledge repertoires despite competing activities.
Area of Science:
- Educational Psychology
- Higher Education Pedagogy
Background:
- College courses often rely on large lectures and texts.
- Student study time is limited by competing activities.
- Traditional teaching methods may not consistently promote deep learning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the role of exam design and frequency in promoting effective student study behavior.
- To understand how teaching methods influence the development of student knowledge.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of factors influencing student study habits in higher education.
- Discussion of the principles of behavioral control in educational settings.
Main Results:
- Exam grades are the most powerful motivator for student study behavior.
- Frequent exams (weekly) that cover material thoroughly and are linked to course grades are most effective.
- Well-structured exams can foster extensive intellectual development.
Conclusions:
- Effective college teaching utilizes mild aversive control, primarily through strategic examination practices.
- Properly implemented, this approach can lead to significant student learning and intellectual growth.
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