The Social Cognitive Learning
Theory indicates that learning
occurs through observation, modeling and motivations (positive
reinforcements) in a social context. The process involves the learner
observing
rewarding
behaviors of models and imitating or copying
them in order to attain the rewards. According to the theorists, N.E. Miller
& Albert Bandura; the possibility for imitation is more with children of
their own age and those with whom they
identify. The responses from the learners vary depending on their personality.
Features of a model
*
Competency
*
Prestige/ power
*
Engagement in relevant , gender appropriate
behaviors
*
Relevancy to the situation
.
Types of Models
*
Direct (simply copying model’s behavior)
*
Symbolic (Imitating behaviors displayed by characters in books )
*
Synthesized (developing behaviors
by combining parts of observed
acts )
The steps involved in social cognitive learning theory
1. Attention:
To learn something it is important to give special attention.
2. Retention:
Learner should be able to remember what he has given attention to.
3. Reproduction
: Transferring the descriptions /images into behavior.
4.
Motivation: The learner can only imitate the model only if he or she is
motivated.
Albert Bandura’s Theory
Social cognitive theory defines learning as an internal mental process
that may or
may not be reflected in immediate behavioral change (Bandura,
1986).
- Learning is done through behavior observations.
- The behavior of an individual is very much linked with the environment(social interactions )
- The interaction of the environment, behavior and the person’s psychological process creates the learner’s personality.
- Effective modeling by the teachers & the media sources teach the learners to deal with different situations that arise.
- Learning and behavior are indirectly affected by punishments and reinforcements.
Reference
* Educational Portal ( 2003
)Social Cognitive Learning Theory: Definition and examples. Retrieved
from http://education-portal.com/academy/lesson/social-cognitive-learning-theory-definition-and-examples.html
