2.1 Behaviourism

Skinner (1968) and Thorndike (1928) were two of the main proponents of behaviourism. Their work examined how behaviour is linked to experience and reward. In the online education context, educators should be aware of the benefits of ‘rewarding’ their students for positive behaviour. One way of doing this is via the assessed elements of the course. Grades, digital badges, records of progress, certificates and qualifications can all be used to mark achievement. Another approach is to offer encouragement and positive feedback for activities such as engaging in discussion or reaching certain milestones.