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| What is observational learning |
As the name suggests observational learning, actually refers to the process of learning new things via our observations throughout our entire life. We may not notice our observational learning experiences but it still keeps happening throughout our life period.
Observational learning isn’t only a theoretical concept but it is actually a scientifically proven technique of learning in psychology. Let’s now learn how observational learning came into the limelight of human life.
History of Observational Learning:
Observational learning is basically a notion that many psychologists have investigated and debated over the years. While not attributable to a single person, Albert Bandura, a prominent psychologist, established and popularized the idea of observational learning in the 1960s.
The function of observation and imitation in the learning process was emphasized in Bandura’s social learning theory. He carried out a number of notable studies, including the well-known Bobo doll experiment, which revealed how youngsters learn violent behavior by seeing aggressive models. Bandura’s study contributed greatly to our knowledge of observational learning and its influence on behavior and cognition.
What is observational learning:
Observational learning, also known as social learning or vicarious learning, is a method of learning that involves observing and mimicking the behavior of others. It is a cognitive process in which people learn new information, skills, attitudes, or behaviors by witnessing the activities and consequences of others.
The theory behind observational learning is that people can learn by watching others without personally experiencing the consequences or rewards of their behavior. It entails paying attention to the model’s behavior, remembering the observed actions, recreating the behavior when given the chance, and being motivated to mimic the behavior based on the observed consequences of the performed actions.
Although these facts are enough to understand observational learning. But it could be even more convenient in understanding its main components.
The main components of observational learning:
Attention:
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| Components of observational learning – Attention |
The process of actively monitoring and paying attention to the behavior displayed by a model is referred to as attention. Individuals must focus their attention on the important components of the model’s behavior, such as their actions, gestures, and vocal instructions, in order to learn through observation. The salience of the model, the novelty of the behavior, and the learner’s level of interest or motivation are all factors that might impact attention.
Retention:
Retention is the process of recalling and keeping seen behavior in memory so that it may be accessed later when needed. Encoding the information and forming mental representations of the behavior are required. Factors like as the intricacy of the behavior, the learner’s cognitive capacity, and the availability of cognitive resources can all have an impact on retention.
Reproduction:
Reproduction refers to the ability to reproduce or imitate the observed behavior. It involves translating the mental representations of the behavior into overt actions. Reproduction may require physical coordination, motor skills, and cognitive processes. Individuals need to understand the sequence and order of actions, as well as the timing and coordination required to reproduce the behavior accurately.
Motivation:
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| Components of observational learning – Motivation |
Motivation plays a crucial role in observational learning. It refers to the internal processes that energize and direct behavior. Motivation can be influenced by various factors, including the outcomes or consequences associated with the behavior, the learner’s self-efficacy (belief in their own ability to perform the behavior), and the perceived value or importance of the behavior. If individuals perceive that imitating the behavior will lead to positive outcomes or rewards, they are more likely to be motivated to reproduce the behavior.
Examples of observational learning:
Observational learning can be observed in various contexts and situations. Here are a few examples:
In a classroom setting,
students often learn by observing their teacher. They pay attention to the teacher’s instructions, explanations, and demonstrations. By observing the teacher’s behavior and techniques, students can acquire new knowledge and skills. For instance, they might learn how to solve a math problem or how to conduct a science experiment by observing the teacher’s step-by-step instructions.
In sports,
athletes often learn by watching and imitating successful athletes. For example, a young basketball player may observe professional players’ shooting techniques, footwork, and defensive strategies. By attentively watching these skilled athletes, they can incorporate similar techniques into their own game and improve their performance.
Children frequently learn through observational learning within their family environment. They observe and imitate the behavior of their parents or older siblings. For instance, a child might learn how to tie their shoelaces, set the table, or engage in polite conversation by watching and imitating their family members.
Observational learning can also be seen in the acquisition of social skills and behaviors too. Children learn appropriate social behavior by observing their peers and adults in social settings. They might learn how to greet others, take turns, or share toys by observing others engaging in these behaviors and receiving positive feedback or social reinforcement.
In the realm of media,
observational learning is evident through the influence of role models. Individuals may learn values, attitudes, and behaviors by observing and identifying with characters they see in movies, television shows, or online content. They may imitate the behavior of their favorite fictional characters or celebrities.
Conclusion:
Observational learning is a fundamental aspect of human development and it really plays a significant role in acquiring a wide range of skills and behaviors. It is mostly important during childhood when children often learn by observing and imitating their parents, teachers, or peers. It also continues to be relevant throughout life, as people learn from role models, media, and other sources of social influence.