Skinner's theory of operant conditioning played a key role in helping psychologists to understand how behavior is learnt. It explains why reinforcements can be used so effectively in the learning process, and how schedules of reinforcement can affect the outcome of conditioning.

Why is operant conditioning important in the classroom?

Operant conditioning encourages positive reinforcement, which can be applied in the classroom environment to get the good behavior you want - and need - from your pupils. ... It is through this process that we develop our behaviors and begin to understand what is appropriate and useful, and what isn't.

What are the important concepts of operant conditioning?

The basic concept behind operant conditioning is that a stimulus (antecedent) leads to a behavior, which then leads to a consequence. This form of conditioning involves reinforcers, both positive and negative, as well as primary, secondary, and generalized. Primary reinforcers are things like food, shelter, and water.