Learning approaches: Social learning theory Flashcards
Assumptions
Social Learning Theory
Bandura agreed w/ Behaviourists that behaviour is learned from experience
SLT proposed people learn through observation & imitation of others
SLT suggested learning occurs directly through classical & operant conditioning but also indirectly
Vicarious reinforcement
Social Learning Theory
Individual observes behaviour of others
Learner will only imitate behaviour if it’s seen to be rewarded (vicarious reinforcement)
Learner observes behaviour but also consequences of behaviour
Role of Mediational Processes
Social Learning Theory
SLT focuses on how mental factors are involved in learning
These mental factors mediate in learning process to determine if new response is required
Bandura identified 4 mediational processes:
1. Attention
2. Retention
3. Motor reproduction
4. Motivation
Learning & performance don’t need to occur together
Identification
Social Learning Theory
People more likely to imitate people they identify with
Process of imitating a role model is called modelling
Person becomes role model if they possess similar characteristics to observer & are attractive/have higher status
Role models not necessarily physically present in environment
Evaluation: Cognitive factors
Social Learning Theory
Strength - recognises importance of cog factors
Classical & operant conditioning can’t offer adequate account of learning on their own
Humans & animals store info about behaviour of others & use this to make judgements about when to act
Therefore, SLT provides a more comprehensive explanation of human learning by recognising role of mediational processes
Evaluation: Cognitive factors (counterpoint)
Social Learning Theory
However, SLT has been criticised for too little reference of bio factors on social learning.
Although, Bandura claimed natural biological diffs influence our learning pot, he thought learning was determined by environment
Research suggests that observational leanring may be result of mirror neurons in brain
Therefore, biological influences on social learning were underemphasised in SLT
Evaluation: Contrived lab studies
Social Learning Theory
Limit: based on evidence from lab studies
Bandura’s ideas developed through observation of children’s behaviour in lab
Lab studies criticised for contrived nature where ppts respond to demand characteristics
Has been suggested that cause main purpose of Bobo doll is to hit it, the children behaved in way they though was expected
Therefore, research may tell us little about how children actually learn aggression in everyday life
Evaluation: Real-World application
Social Learning Theory
Strength: SLT principles applied to real-world behaviours
SLT has advantage of being able to explain cultural diffs in behaviour
SLT principles (i.e. modelling & imitation) can account for how children learn from others around them
This can explain how cultural norms are transmitted through particular societies
Proven useful in understanding range of behaviours (i.e. how children come to understand their gender role)
Therefore, increases value of approach as it can account for real-world behaviour
