ASU What Is Positive Reinforcement and PBIS Discussion

Introduction & Instructions:

When we hear the term “positive reinforcement” we might get an image of giving a child candy or chocolate to get them to do what we want them to. However, in this episode, Courtney Bilton, a behavior analyst, explains that there is a lot more to it. She explains that praise and positive reinforcement are not the same. Although Cindy Hovington (the Host of Curious Neuron) and Bilton discuss positive reinforcement for an audience of parents, direct applications can be made to students and their behaviors in our classrooms.  

Another application of behaviorism, positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), is a topic currently applied to classrooms, schools, and districts. In this podcast episode, Dr. Rob Horner (University of Oregon) is a guest on Tim Villegas’ podcast, Think Inclusive–a podcast that aims to build a bridge between parents, educators, and advocates to advocate for inclusive education. Dr. Horner is the Director of the Technical Assistance Center on PBIS and has a rich history in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA).

For this activity, please complete the following:

Step 1. Listen :

• Curious Neuron Podcast: #8 Effective Use of Positive Reinforcement (56:00) (Links to an external site.) | *Transcript Unavailable

Step 2. Reflect, Relate, & Share:

Please organize your response by the following:

• 3 Takeaways. What stood out to you when reviewing this material? List three direct quotes, nuggets, takeaways, impressions, or reactions you have. Provide citations when appropriate. For example: (Sousa, 2010, p. 12) or (Gonzalez, 2017, 4:32)
• 2 Classroom Connections. In what ways does this material relate to student learning in your classroom or content area? Provide two connections to the classroom. At least one of these must be directly related to student learning.
• 1 Course Content Connection. In what way does this material relate to our course content? Provide one connection to the course content and include a citation and page number. For example: (Ormrod, 2020, p. 145)