The learning approach: social learning theory

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  • Social learning theorists are interested in learning that occurs indirectly
    • Albert Bandura agreed with the behaviourist that learning occurs through experience, but proposed that learning takes place in a social context through observation and imitation of other's behaviour.
    • Key features of social learning theory
      • A key feature of social learning is observing the consequences of behaviour.
        • Children observe other people's behaviour and note the consequences it brings. Behaviour that is seen to be rewarded (reinforced) is much more likely to be copied than behaviour that is punished.
          • Bandura called this vicarious reinforcement.
      • Mediational (cognitive) processes play a crucial role in learning
        • SLT is the 'bridge' between the cognitive approach and behaviourism as it recognises the role of cognitive processes in learning, called mediational processes.
          • 1. Attention - whether behaviour is noticed.         2. Retention - whether behaviour is remembered.   3. Motor reproduction - the ability of the observer to preform the behaviour.       4. Motivation - the will to perform the behaviour.
      • Social learning theory recognises a distinction between learning and performance
        • Attention and retention relate to the learning of behaviour; motor reproduction and motivation relate to the performance of behaviour. In contrast with behaviourism, learning and performance of behaviour may not necessarily occur together.
      • Identification with role models is important
        • Children are more likely to copy behaviour of people which they identify: role models
          • Role models are similar to the observer, tend to be attractive and have high status.
      • There are two subtly different uses of the term modelling
        • From the observer's perspective, modelling is imitating the behaviour of a role model.
          • From the role model's perspective, it is demonstrating behaviour that may be imitated by an observer.

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