Behavioral & Social Cognitive Theories of Learning

The summary… a self reflection…

Social Learning Theory

Albert Bandura theory has become probably the most influential theory of learning and development. Deep seated in many of the basic concepts of traditional learning theory, Bandura added a social element in his theory arguing that people can learn new information and behaviors by watching other people. This is known as observational learning (or modeling).

The Process Of Modeling

Effective learning does not necessarily take place through observing behaviors. There are factors affecting both the model and the learner determining whether social learning is successful. The following processes are involved in learning from models : -

Attention:

You need to pay attention in order to learn. Focused attention is significant in observational learning. If the model is interesting or there is a novelty in the demonstration, students’ attention is captured enhancing learning.

Retention:

The ability to retain what is learnt is also an important part of the learning process. Though retention can be affected by a number of factors, the ability to recall and transfer learning is significant to observational learning.

Reproduction:

Understanding what has been learnt and having subsequent practice of the learned behavior leads to improvement and skill advancement.

Motivation:

The learner must be motivated to imitate the behavior that has been modeled. In motivation, reinforcement and punishment play an important role. Observing others experiencing some type of reinforcement or punishment can improve learning. For example, seeing classmates completing assignments within the deadline can help one to do one’s best in handing up assignments on time.

Applying the principles in practice …

In designing the curriculum, different modeling approaches are used to facilitate learning. Technology-based lessons are designed to capture the students’ interest. Assignments and assessment modes are crafted to help students retained and transfer learning. Motivation in the form of compliments, rewards, showcasing good works of classmates, sharing of presentations help to boost their morale. Along with motivators, those who fail to meet deadlines have deduction in ‘attitude’ marks. In a nutshell, the model I created in helping students to learn involves the acronym – ‘R.A.T’ ( Retain…Apply…Transfer ) which in many ways similar to the theory expounded.