Currently, three theories of learning dominate classroom practice. First, B.F. Skinner's Theory of Operant Conditioning states that if behavior, including learning behavior, is reinforced, the probability of its being repeated increases strongly. Different types and schedules of reinforcement have been studied, by Skinner and others, and the…

Traditionally, the treatment of geriatric patients suffering from Organic Brain Syndrome (OBS) has been characterized by non-therapeutic custodial care. To determine whether elderly clients with dementia can benefit from self-care skill training, and to compare their progress with clients without OBS, 30 clients of the Residential Aging Program in…

The mandatory-staggered-attendance plan can significantly increase existing facilities capacity, reduce new facilities capacity requirements, effect substantial capital program economies, offer potential for operating economies, effect fuel-energy savings, and offer both operational and capital busing economies. (Author)

A computerized review of construction bidding documents, usually done by a consulting engineer, can reveal how much money it will cost to operate various alternative types of HVAC equipment over a school's lifetime. The review should include a computerized load calculation, energy systems flow diagram, control system analysis, and a computerized…

The consultant's role in training teachers to use behavior modification techniques is examined. It is explained that a combination of knowledge and guided experience with feedback and support, has been found most effective. Among typical problems cited for teachers using behavioral techniques is a lack of reinforcement. Answers to the five…

Underweight subjects were assigned to either a self-reinforcement condition, a self-punishment condition, or to a discussion/reflection control condition. The subjects received one treatment session per week over a five-week period. After treatment, the self-reinforcement groups gained significantly more pounds (kilograms) than either of the other…

Reports on a behavior modification study conducted at Stanford University in California nearly 10 years ago. Details the project and provides follow-up data eight years later. (EJT)

Summarizes the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis on language and thought process, along with several critical viewpoints. The writings of Koschmieder, Gipper, and Lenneberg, as well as psychological and linguistic aspects of experiments on color differentiation and conditioned response, are discussed. (Text is in German.) (DH)

Based on part of the author's unpublished doctoral dissertation, Arizona State University, 1967.