ABSTRACT
Behaviorism examines relationships between the individual and the environment. Theories by researchers such as Ivan Pavlov and John Watson who introduced classical conditioning, and Edward Thorndike and B. F. Skinner (operant conditioning) who looked at how environmental stimulation could impact learning. Clifford Madsen and others built on the operant conditioning model focusing on guiding “good” or “successful” teaching by analyzing the role of appropriate reinforcement such as praise and feedback on musical discrimination, attitude, and performance in music learning. Fundamental descriptions of behavioral psychology and the historical context of behavioral theorists are followed by types and schedules of reinforcement in the music classroom. Throughout the chapter, models and examples of behavioral reinforcement, behavioral modification, and overall classroom management in the music classroom are presented to the reader.
