Observational learning

Question 1

Observational learning define

Answer 1

when one learns by watching the behaviour demonstrated by another (model) whilst noting the positive and negative consequences of their actions and using this as a guide for one’s own future actions. Learning occurs vicariously (indirectly) as we are only observing the actions of others and are not the ones who are initially reinforced or punished (e.g. learning to make a cup of tea by watching Grandma).

Question 2

Modelling define

Answer 2

when the observer demonstrates the learnt behaviour by imitating it (often referred to as a form of operant conditioning because the learning is controlled by the consequences of the model).

Question 3

OL - S1

Answer 3

1. Attention: the observer must actively watch the model as they complete the task including its consequences.

Question 4

OL - S2`

Answer 4

the observer must be able to make a mental representation of the observed behaviour and its consequences by storing it in their memory so that the observed learning can be used at a later time. At this stage, learning is said to be latent.

Question 5

OL - S3

Answer 5

Reproduction - the observer must have the physical and intellectual ability to perform these actions (i.e. converting the mental representations into actions).

Question 6

OL - S4

Answer 6

4. Motivation: the observer must want to perform or imitate the learnt behaviour (this usually depends whether or not the individual believes that the consequences are desirable).

Question 7

OL - S5

Answer 7

5. Reinforcement: if the model receives positive reinforcement, then this will increase the likelihood that the observer will repeat the behaviour.

Question 8

OL - charactersitics of the model

Answer 8

· The characteristics of the model can influence the likelihood that a learner will pay attention, retain and reproduce a behaviour. Such factors that will increase the likelihood include similarity of the model to the observer and relevance, likeability, credibility, attentiveness and prestige of the model.

Question 9

OL - characterstic of learner

Answer 9

· The extent to which the learner will imitate the model’s behaviour also depends on the nature of the observer (e.g. motivation, level of self-esteem and confidence).

Question 10

Bandura conclusions

Answer 10

· Learning can occur through observation of the behaviour of models.

· Vicarious learning can occur when models are seen to be reinforced for their behaviour.

· Learning can be cognitive; the children who observed the models learnt how to hit a Bobo doll but did not necessarily demonstrate their learning.

· Learning through observation can occur but remain latent unless an appropriate reward is offered to the observer to reproduce the learnt behaviour.

· Learning to control behaviour such as aggression can be learnt through observation of an appropriate model.