The Importance of Behaviourism for Students

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEHAVIOURISM FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

By: Dwi Rohmah Stiya

Student of Chemistry Education, UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta

The name is “mahasiswa” (university student). First, let us congratulate ourselves for still having the opportunity to study at a university. After a long process and effort, it has finally paid off with our acceptance at the campus of our dreams. What we need to remember here is that as university students, our level has gone up one more step, from "student" (siswa) to "maha-siswa" (great student). This change is not just a change of name, or a matter of the students mostly looking grown up, but a memo that we are now expected to be more versatile, more outstanding, more competent, and more critical in responding to problems. Well, to actualise this, what we need is diligence. Yep, becoming a diligent student.

Being a diligent, anti-lazy student is not just a cliche or empty words. It has a real impact on academic success and on a person’s ability to maximise their potential in higher education. Here are some reasons why being a diligent student is a must. First, better academic achievement. Diligent students tend to achieve higher academic results. They do not merely meet the minimum requirements, but try to understand the material more deeply. By understanding these concepts, they can apply them in real life. Second, deep understanding. A diligent attitude in studying helps a person gain a deeper understanding of the subject being studied. This allows students to contribute actively to class discussions and apply their knowledge in real-world situations. Third, improved time management skills. Being a diligent student means having good planning. This helps develop valuable time management skills that will be useful throughout life. Fourth, increased self-confidence. When someone feels sure of their ability to learn and complete tasks, it can boost their overall self-confidence. Good self-confidence is the key to success in academics and beyond.

The life of a diligent student can be likened to that of a honey bee. Bees are hard-working, disciplined animals that are highly organised in collecting nectar to make honey. Likewise, diligent students work hard, have self-discipline, and are organised in their efforts to collect knowledge and skills. Related to behaviour theory (behaviourism) in psychology, behaviour theory emphasises the importance of observable and measurable behaviour in the learning process.

In this context, the consistent behaviour of diligent students, such as following a study schedule, avoiding procrastination, and participating actively in the learning process, is an important aspect of behaviour theory. Behaviour theory focuses on how an individual’s behaviour is influenced by the environment and learning experiences. Just as bees respond to environmental stimuli to collect nectar, diligent students respond to the academic environment with productive study behaviour. They create positive habits that help them collect "knowledge" as bees collect nectar.

In behaviour theory, positive reinforcement such as good academic achievement or satisfaction from learning can strengthen the behaviour of diligent students. Thus, this analogy illustrates how behaviour theory can explain and support the importance of diligent behaviour in achieving academic success. In the world of education, behaviour theory (behaviourism) has long been an important framework for understanding how humans learn and develop certain behaviours. In this article, I will explore the concept of being a diligent, anti-lazy student from the standpoint of behaviourism, which emphasises the influence of the environment and learning experiences on individual behaviour.

Behaviourism Theory in Learning

Behaviourism, which was first developed by B.F. Skinner and John B. Watson, emphasises that human behaviour is learned through interaction with the environment. This means that desired behaviour can be increased or maintained through positive reinforcement, while undesired behaviour can be changed or stopped through punishment or the removal of reinforcement. In the context of education, behaviourism highlights how student behaviour can be shaped and improved through the influence of the learning environment. Therefore, becoming a diligent, anti-lazy student can be seen as the result of the interaction between the individual and their environment.

Diligent Students in Behaviourism Theory

How does behaviourism explain becoming a diligent student? In this theory, diligent study behaviour is the result of positive reinforcement received by students. This positive reinforcement can take the form of good academic achievement, praise from lecturers or classmates, or personal satisfaction from successfully completing a task. Diligent students tend to experience this positive reinforcement regularly. When they achieve high grades, they feel satisfied and regard the achievement as a reward that strengthens their diligent study behaviour. In this case, high academic achievement is a positive reinforcement that encourages them to keep working hard.

In addition, behaviourism underlines the importance of giving consistent positive reinforcement in learning. Lecturers and educational institutions can play an important role in providing positive reinforcement, such as constructive feedback and recognition of students’ achievements. This can increase motivation and encourage students to become more diligent in their studies.

Overcoming Student Laziness in Behaviourism Theory

In behaviourism, student laziness can be regarded as behaviour that needs to be changed. To overcome laziness, the principles of this theory can be applied.

Positive Reinforcement. In overcoming laziness, it is important to give positive reinforcement when students show diligent study behaviour. This can be praise, rewards, or positive feedback.

Giving Clear Tasks. Setting clear tasks and expectations gives students strong guidance. In behaviourism, clear and measurable tasks help students understand what is expected of them.

Rational Punishment. Although behaviourism emphasises positive reinforcement, rational punishment can also be used in certain cases. Punishment must be applied wisely and only when necessary to change lazy behaviour.

Setting Up a Supportive Environment. Creating a supportive learning environment is also important. This can include creating a quiet and focused study space or minimising distractions that can tempt laziness.

Effective Study Planning. Students can make use of effective study planning techniques, such as making a study schedule and prioritising tasks. In behaviourism, good planning can help build diligent study habits.

Thus, behaviourism is a relevant framework for understanding how to become a diligent, anti-lazy student. In this theory, diligent study behaviour is the result of positive reinforcement received by students. This positive reinforcement can come in the form of good academic achievement, praise, or personal satisfaction. Conversely, laziness can be regarded as behaviour that can be changed through the principles of behaviourism, such as giving clear tasks and setting up a supportive environment. In the context of behaviourism, becoming a diligent student is about forming and maintaining positive study behaviour through interaction with the environment.

Understand that this process requires great effort, consistency, and perseverance. But every small step we take to become a diligent student will bring us closer to success. Happy studying!