You may recall that behaviorism is a movement that emphasizes the reinforcement of desired behaviors. In the classroom, this translates to (a) rewarding students who participate in class and punishing those who do not, and (b) giving assessments often, which is intended to reinforce those who choose to do the out-of-class work and punish those who do not. The idea is to encourage students to participate actively in class and at home. My classes this semester are taught by behaviorists. Here are some observations.

1. I am a graduate student
2. I already know how to learn
3. I am good at learning
4. My learning style does not fit in your box
5. Clarence Thomas hasn't spoken in open court in 31 months: I'm pretty sure I shouldn't lose points if I don't ask a question or make a comment in every class
6. I don't pay $450 a credit hour to listen to my classmates talk about their personal lives and ask irrelevant questions; I pay for you to tell me what I need to know