Download Applying Operant Conditioning Theory to

Applying Operant Conditioning Theory to Language Learning
Hanaa Wahba
EDD 1104: Bilingual and Second Language Acquisition
Long Island University, Post
May 19, 2014
Today’s class was very dynamic and I really liked it. We covered a lot of theories and we
were actively participated in a lot of discussions. It is important to see how educators can
effectively apply theories in their classroom. As I’m an ESL instructor, who teaches international
college students, I’m interested in learning more about theories in order to apply them in
language learning. Skinner is considered the father of Operant Conditioning, but his theory was
based on the work of Thorndike (1905).
Based on Skinner’s learning theory, positive, negative reinforcements, and punishment
can help mold or change behavior. Skinner believed that we learn language because it brings us a
reward of some kind. Skinner’s behaviorist theory threw light on imitation and practice as vital
processes in language development (Lightbrown & Spada, 2006). Thus, through the form of
praise, or positive reinforcement, a language learner would continue to practice the sounds and
correct themselves.
In my opinion, positive reinforcement is a very powerful and effective tool to help
language learners to learn a language. Based on Skinner’s theory, the consistency of the
reinforcement would enhance the language learners’ learning. Moreover, using positive
reinforcement can motivate a student to learn the second language. Thus, language learners
should be rewarded when they continuing in practicing the second language.
As an ESL instructor, my main goal is to help my international college students enjoy
learning. I encourage them to take opportunity to practice the English language in the class
Thus, I use positive reinforcement as an effective way to improve their language skills. For
instance, they participate in a lot of debates and discussions in the ESL classroom and the
winning group takes candies or chocolate as a reward. In my own perspective, this is an effective
way that encourages ESL students to improve their language learning.
I give permission for this response to be published with my name if considered.