Observational Learning in Social Cognitive Theory

Observational Learning

Social Cognitive Theory

Social cognitive theory argues that much human learning occurs in the social environment. By observing and imitating others, human beings acquire knowledge, skills, attitudes, etc.

Components of Social Cognitive Theory

Bandura synthesizes elements of reinforcement schemes and the theory of information processing.

Conduct + Personal Factors + Environment

Another basic component of this theory is Bandura's distinction between active learning and vicarious learning. While active learning is learning by doing, vicarious learning is learning by watching others.

Vicarious learning accelerates behavior and helps avoid negative consequences.

Bandura distinguishes well between the acquisition of knowledge (learning) and the implementation and use of that knowledge (behavior).

Observational learning will not be complete until the subject is able to perform the observed behavior.

Observational Learning and its Elements

Observational learning has four components. The first two relate to acquisition and the last two to execution or implementation:

1. Attention: A prerequisite for observation. The characteristics of the model and the observer also play a role. Using verbal instructions can be helpful.
2. Retention: To mimic the behavior of a model, we must remember it. The information is stored using images and/or verbal codes. Retention is improved by mental practice and actual practice.
3. Production: Applying what we know to behaviors.
4. Motivation: The acquisition of a behavior does not imply its implementation if it is not accompanied by incentives (external or self-administered).

Educational Implications

There may be three types of effects on the behavior of observers and imitators:

1. Observers can acquire new patterns of behavior.
2. It can strengthen or weaken inhibitions of responses that already existed in the student's behavioral repertoire.
3. The conduct of others can serve as a discriminative stimulus for observers, promoting in them behaviors very similar to the model's.