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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.