Question

Explain the use of principle of Trial and Error in education.

Hint:

Recall Thorndike's cat-and-puzzle-box experiment, then connect it to letting students attempt and repeat successful responses.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Trial and Error theory of learning was given by Edward Thorndike, based on his experiments with cats trying to escape a puzzle box. A learner tries different responses to a problem, and the response that brings success gets "stamped in" through repetition, while unsuccessful responses fade away.

Step 2: Thorndike's laws behind this.
1. Law of Effect: a response followed by satisfaction is strengthened; one followed by discomfort is weakened.
2. Law of Exercise: a response repeated often becomes stronger and more automatic.
3. Law of Readiness: learning works best when the learner is mentally and physically ready to act.

Step 3: Use in education.
1. Teachers let students attempt a problem themselves (like a maths sum or a science experiment) instead of only showing the method first, so students learn through their own successful and unsuccessful attempts.
2. Mistakes are treated as a normal, useful part of learning rather than something to fear.
3. Practice and repetition of correct responses are built into lessons and homework, matching the Law of Exercise.
4. Rewards, praise, and marks are used to strengthen correct responses, matching the Law of Effect.

Final Answer:
Trial and error is used in education by letting students attempt problems directly, treating mistakes as learning steps, reinforcing correct responses through practice and reward, in line with Thorndike's laws of effect, exercise, and readiness.