Albert Bandura’s Social or Observational Learning Theory

 


Albert Bandura’s Social or Observational Learning Theory

 

·         Known for his “Bobo Doll” experiment

·         People learn through observation, stimulation, modeling which means watching or observing, another called a model and later imitating the model’s behavior.

·         Concentrates on Example

 

Classification of models

·         Real life

-       Exemplified by teachers, parents and significant others.

 

·         Symbolic

-       Presented through oral or written symbols

 

·         Representational

-       Presented through audio-visual measures

 

4 Phases of Observational Learning

·         Attention

-       Mere exposure does not ensure acquisition of behavior. Observer must attend to recognize the distinctive features of the model’s response.

 

·         Retention

-       Reproduction of the desired behavior implies that student symbolically retains that observed behavior.

 

·         Motor Reproduction Process

-       After observation, physical skills and coordination are needed for reproduction of the behavior learned.

 

·         Motivational Process

-       Although observer acquires and retains ability to perform the modeled behavior, there will be no overt performance unless conditions are favorable.