Observational learning

Observational learning, also known as social learning or modeling, is a type of learning that occurs as a function of observing, retaining, and replicating novel behavior executed by others. It is considered a crucial element of cognitive development and psychology, offering a framework through which individuals (both humans and animals) can acquire new behaviors and skills without direct experience or instruction. The concept has been most famously analyzed and described by psychologist Albert Bandura in the context of social learning theory, emphasizing the role of imitation, modeling, and the social context in learning processes.

Mechanisms

Observational learning involves several processes, which can be summarized by the acronym ARMED: Attention, Retention, Motor Reproduction, and Motivation, with an additional factor of Dependence on the model's characteristics.

• Attention: For observational learning to occur, the learner must pay attention to the model. Factors influencing this include the model's distinctiveness, the complexity of the action, the learner's own interest, and the relevance of the observation to the learner's goals.
• Retention: The observed behavior must be remembered or retained in order to be later reproduced. This involves the cognitive processes of coding and storing the information.
• Motor Reproduction: The learner must be physically and/or mentally capable of reproducing the observed behavior. This step translates cognitive representations into actions.
• Motivation: Learners will not reproduce an observed behavior unless they have some motivation or reason to do so. This can stem from external reinforcement (rewards/punishments) or internal factors (satisfaction, self-efficacy).
• Dependence on Model's Characteristics: The effectiveness of observational learning can also depend on characteristics of the model, such as their perceived similarity to the learner, competence, and the observed consequences of their behavior.

Applications and Examples

Observational learning has wide-ranging applications, including in education, therapy, and media influence. In educational settings, teachers and peers can serve as models for academic behaviors. Therapeutically, modeling can be used to teach new behaviors and coping strategies. Media, including television and the internet, provides a vast array of models for behavior and attitudes, not all of which are positive.

Theoretical and Empirical Support

Albert Bandura's Bobo doll experiment is a landmark study providing empirical support for observational learning. Children who observed an adult model behaving aggressively towards a Bobo doll were more likely to later exhibit similar aggressive behaviors themselves, demonstrating that learning can occur through observation alone, without reinforcement.

Critiques and Limitations

While observational learning theory has been influential, it has also faced criticism. Some argue that it does not adequately account for the complexity of human cognition and the internal processes involved in learning. Others point out that it may overemphasize the role of imitation in learning and underemphasize the importance of active, hands-on experience.

See Also

• Cognitive development
• Social learning theory
• Albert Bandura
• Bobo doll experiment
• Imitation
• Modeling (psychology)