Observational Learning: Reinforcement and Classroom Application

Types of Reinforcement

Bandura identifies three forms of reinforcement that promote learning by observation:

1. Direct Reinforcement: Reinforcing the observer directly when they reproduce the model's behavior.

2. Indirect or Vicarious Reinforcement: Reinforcing the model. Observing the consequences of others' behavior can modify behavior similarly to direct experience. Vicarious reinforcement:

• a) Informs observers about appropriate behavior based on success and failure patterns.
• b) Enhances practical learning through direct experience, as multiple observers can be exposed to the modeled behavior simultaneously.
• c) Reduces attention demands compared to direct experience.

3. Self-Reinforcement: Controlling one's own reinforcements without expecting external consequences.

Value of Additions

Bandura asserts that behavior is largely governed by consequences. In operant conditioning, consequences strengthen behavior. In social learning, behavior and its consequences provide information and motivation.

Consequences inform people about the accuracy or appropriateness of their behavior.

Consequences motivate people to learn behaviors with desirable outcomes and avoid those with undesirable ones.

Factors in Observational Learning

Observing models does not guarantee learning. Factors influencing observational learning include:

1. Positive consequences of behavior.

2. Observer characteristics: Alignment between imitator and imitated.

3. Model characteristics: Specific traits optimize modeling effectiveness.

Observational Learning in the Classroom

1. Teaching new behaviors (characteristics, motor skills, mental tasks).

2. Developing emotions.

3. Facilitating behavior.

4. Changing inhibition.