Two previous articles in this journal advocate the greater use of a behaviourist methodology called "Precision Teaching" (PT). From a position located within virtue ethics, this article argues that the technical feat of raising narrowly defined performance in mathematics and other subjects is not sufficient justification for the…

Any study of the history of psychology must first determine what is to be considered psychology, whether to stick to the relatively continuous Western tradition or to include others (e.g., Eastern, Oriental), and whether to investigate the impact of the socio-cultural events of the time on the views of that period or consider those views in a…

The articles in this special Practitioner's Edition of "Psychology in the Schools" share the application of sound educational and behavioral practices in real school and classroom contexts. Given this emphasis in these articles on the applied use of behavioral practices, the purpose of this brief commentary is to highlight and comment on some of…

This paper presents the views of three critics of higher education in America, chosen to represent the conservative, centrist, and liberal points of view. The critics are Russell Kirk (conservative), Robert Maynard Hutchins (middle ground), and Harold Taylor (liberal); and their views are presented within the framework of six concepts: (1) outlook…

Argues that behavioral approaches in education are best placed within a rational or justificatory framework, rather than within a strictly scientific account of human activity. Draws the distinction between the two frameworks, and outlines major criticisms leveled at behaviorism in education. Discusses aspects of behaviorism in education from the…

Evaluates efforts to incorporate ethical instruction into schooling through emphasis on citizenship and moral competence. Labels such efforts "moral vocationalism." Suggests that the movement has a weak knowledge base, relies upon behaviorist principles, and is exclusively instrumentalist. Recommends fortifying the approach with…

A brief biographical sketch of Burrhus Frederick Skinner is offered, followed by a review of his impact on education and psychology. His research in radical behaviorism, his theoretical contributions, development of programed instruction techniques, token economies, and numerous inventions by himself and his proteges are summarized. (PB)

Reports research results concerning beliefs about B. F. Skinner's psychological theories. Examines beliefs in the myths that Skinner: (1) discounted physiological and genetic roles in behavior; (2) believed that any behavior could be conditioned; (3) discounted individual uniqueness; (4) viewed punishment as the preferred form of behavior control;…

This document outlines principles of learning that should be followed by teachers of gifted students. Principles include: (1) students' need to experience challenge in the classroom; (2) students' need to attain as much as individual abilities permit; (3) curricular emphasis on students' personal interests; (4) meaningful experiences; (5)…

Whichever of the numerous ways of grouping pupils for instruction the teacher uses, pupils should benefit as much as possible from reading instruction. Team teaching stresses large, small, and individual methods of grouping for instructional purposes. No more than 20 pupils should be taught at a single time in large group instruction. Flexibility…

"Mental modeling" refers to a student's ability to visualize or comprehend the information research process. This article reviews 50 years of changing conceptions of how we learn: behaviorist, cognitivist, and constructivist perspective; describes the application of three "mental models" to interactive technology; and discusses…

College instructors of English need to use selected strands from the educational psychology arena in teaching so that students may achieve more optimally. Each student needs to experience a quality English curriculum. A quality English class emphasizes instructional procedures which are conducive to achieving, growing, and learning on the part of…

This speech explores the concept of professional self-renewal. The presenter seeks to understand why some professionals always seem fresh, energetic, and ready for new challenges, whereas others are perpetually tired, bored, and irritated with the demands of their work. Referring to McGregor's management theories, the paper infers that Theory X…

Explores the Accelerated Christian Education Curriculum used in a working class, fundamentalist Baptist school in upstate New York. This school blends behaviorism and Calvinism, using rules to regulate students' behavior and cubicle "offices" to isolate students. Speculates on the congruency of this social reproduction approach with…

An effective discipline plan must emphasize respect and responsibility while addressing behavior problems. Assertive Discipline essentially tells students, "Behave or else!" (TE)