Behaviorism vs. Essentialism

Attribute	Behaviorism	Essentialism
Focus	Observable behavior	Essential nature of things
Learning	Based on conditioning and reinforcement	Based on innate knowledge and abilities
Teaching	Emphasis on external stimuli and rewards	Emphasis on transmitting essential knowledge
Philosophical roots	Empiricism	Realism

Introduction

Behaviorism and Essentialism are two contrasting educational philosophies that have been influential in shaping teaching practices. While Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors and external stimuli, Essentialism emphasizes the importance of core knowledge and skills. In this article, we will explore the key attributes of Behaviorism and Essentialism and compare their approaches to education.

Behaviorism

Behaviorism is a psychological theory that suggests that all behaviors are learned through conditioning. This theory, developed by B.F. Skinner and John B. Watson, focuses on observable behaviors and the impact of external stimuli on behavior. In the context of education, Behaviorism emphasizes the use of reinforcement and punishment to shape student behavior and learning outcomes. Teachers using a Behaviorist approach often rely on rewards and consequences to motivate students and reinforce desired behaviors.

• Focuses on observable behaviors
• Emphasizes external stimuli
• Uses reinforcement and punishment
• Rewards and consequences are used to motivate students

Essentialism

Essentialism, on the other hand, is an educational philosophy that emphasizes the importance of core knowledge and skills. Proponents of Essentialism believe that there are essential subjects and skills that all students should learn in order to become well-rounded individuals. This philosophy is rooted in the idea that education should focus on the basics, such as reading, writing, mathematics, and science. Essentialist teachers prioritize academic rigor and traditional subjects, often following a structured curriculum that covers essential content.

• Emphasizes core knowledge and skills
• Believes in essential subjects for all students
• Prioritizes academic rigor
• Follows a structured curriculum

Comparison

When comparing Behaviorism and Essentialism, it is clear that they have distinct approaches to education. Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors and external stimuli, while Essentialism emphasizes core knowledge and skills. While Behaviorism uses reinforcement and punishment to shape behavior, Essentialism prioritizes academic rigor and traditional subjects. Both philosophies have their strengths and weaknesses, and educators may choose to incorporate elements of both approaches in their teaching practices.

• Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors, while Essentialism emphasizes core knowledge and skills.
• Behaviorism uses reinforcement and punishment, while Essentialism prioritizes academic rigor.
• Both philosophies have their strengths and weaknesses.
• Educators may choose to incorporate elements of both approaches in their teaching practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Behaviorism and Essentialism are two influential educational philosophies that offer different perspectives on teaching and learning. Behaviorism focuses on observable behaviors and external stimuli, while Essentialism emphasizes core knowledge and skills. Educators can benefit from understanding the key attributes of both philosophies and incorporating elements of each into their teaching practices to create a well-rounded educational experience for students.