Behavior reinforcement and learning capabilities of mentally retarded learners in trans-Nzoia East district, Kenya
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Date
2012-09
Authors
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kampala International University , College of Education, Open & Distance Learning
Abstract
This study was to determine the degree of effectiveness of behavior reinforcement and learning capabilities of the mentally retarded learners in trans-Nzoia East District Kenya. The instruments used for collection was questionnaire used to establish the following: demographic characteristics of both pupils and teachers’ behavior reinforcement used by teachers in teaching mentally retarded learners in the level of learning capabilities of the mentally retarded learners and significant relationship between the degree of reinforcement and level of learning capabilities of the mentally retarded learners. The findings of the study indicated the following; most of the learners with mental retardation were male first born or last born in the family. Higher numbers of teachers handling mental retardation learners were female. Teachers commonly use the following reinforcement; contingency contracting, token economies, performed instructions, paired associations and environmental enhancement. Discovered that learning capabilities enhanced through; education programming, precision teaching and concept analysis. It was concluded that these learners learn better through reinforcement. Without reinforcement the mentally retarded learners can hardly grasp concepts from the teacher. Also reinforcement change poor behavior into good behavior through behavior modification. It was recommended that more teachers especially male to posted in special schools. Also enough teachers to be posted in schools with units. Lastly the government to provide more physical facilities, learning and teaching aids.
Description
A Thesis Presented To the College of Higher Degrees and Research Kampala International University Kampala, Uganda in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Master of Education in Special Needs
Keywords
Behavior reinforcement, Learning capabilities