B. F. Skinner and the Behavior Classroom

B. F. Skinner (1954) took the behaviorist learning theory one step further. Like Pavlov, Watson, and Thorndike, Skinner believed in the stimulants-response pattern. In his book Science and Human Behavior, Skinner pointed out how principals all of operate conditions function in education. In regards to special-education Skinner suggests the use of different technologies and teaching which includes well defined objectives. Blackhurst & Edyburn (2000), suggested the special education teacher use small units with high levels of student involvement. Enforcement and reinforcement should be used to get desired results. When dealing with behavior and the special education room Skinner (1954), the required response from the students was achieved through technology. A spelling and math machine was developed so the child's right answers was rewarded with a bell and was later improved so that the child would not get new a question until he right answers were giving to the previous question.

In today's classroom the use of computers and other technologies can be utilized as a reward system and at the same time, reinforce the lesson that is put forth. Interactive software has been created to enhance the children's learning experience by giving them rewards such as games or free time away from the subject content far providing they give correct answers. In regards to behavior in the classroom behavior plans need to have a reward system put into place. The plan will lay out the teacher's expectations for behavior within the classroom and also let the child be aware of the positive stimuli they will achieved once positive behavior is to demonstrated. Milhollan & Forisha (1972) remind that "punishment is not the opposite of positive reinforcement. Punishment temporarily suppresses a behavior by removing a positive reinforcer or presenting a negative reinforcer or aversive stimulus."