Topic 4 : Social Leaning Theories

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Timeline of Learning Theories
Social Cognitive Theory

Albert Bandura demonstrated that

people can learn by observing both
the actions of others and the
consequences of those actions. Most
of what is known as Social Cognitive
Theory is based on the work begun
by Albert Bandura in the 1960s.

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 Social Learning Theory or
Social Cognitive Theory

Social Cognitive Theory

(SCT) started as the Social
Learning Theory (SLT) in
the 1960s by Albert
Bandura.

It developed into the SCT

in 1986 and posits that
learning occurs in a social
context with a dynamic
and reciprocal interaction
of the person,
environment, and
behavior.
Social Cognitive Theory
His early work on learning was grounded in the behavioural principles of
reinforcement and punishment, but he added a focus on learning from
observing others.

From SLT ---------→ to SCT

And Now Bandura focused on cognitive factors such as beliefs, self

perceptions, expectations. This is how he called as Social Cognitive
Theory.

SCT expands social learning theory to include cognitive factors.

 SOCIAL COGNITIVE THEORY

THE CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK FOR LEARNING

Social Cognitive Theory
Key element of SCT :

• Modelling process
• Influences of learning and
performance
• Self-Efficacy
• Goals and expectation
• Self regulation

We learn not only how to perform

a behavior but also what will
happen to us in a specific situation
if we do perform it.
Modeling Process

• Modeling is a critical component in SCT. Modeling is general term that

refers to Behavioural, Cognitive and Affective changes deriving from
observing one or more model.
• Historically, modelling was discussed as
imitation but “modelling” is a far more
inclusive concept.
 QUESTION TO DISCUSS

• How can we relate Modelling process with the cognitive domain?

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Observational Learning

Attention Retention Production Motivation

Mental focus or To encode the To actually perform Force that drives

concentration. behavior in the the behaviour one to act.
memory. observed.
Willingness of the
child to observe Ability to store
and mimic the information.
behaviour of a
model.

Bobo Doll experiment on observational Learning by Bandura.

https://www.simplypsychology.org/bobo-doll.html
 Functions of Modelling

Modelling process :

Inhibition – occurs models being punished of certain action and

prevent observers to avoid it.

Disinhibition – models perform prohibited action without

experiencing any consequences.

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Goals and Outcome Expectation
❑ Goals
Reflects one’s purpose and refers to quantity, quality or rate
performance. Tolman (1932) believed that behaviour is goal directed.

❑ Outcome Expectation
Outcome Expectations are personal beliefs about the anticipated
outcomes of actions.
Self Efficacy
Refers to personal beliefs about one’s capabilities to learn or to perform
actions as designated levels (Bandura, 1977a, 1977b, 1986, 1993, 1997). It
is not the same as knowing what to do.

Self efficacy is a key to promote a sense of agency in people that they

can influence their lives.

❑ Adult Models
Research indicates that exposing students to adult models influences
their self-efficacy for learning and performing well.

❑ Peer Models
Observing similar peer models performing a task well can raise observers’
self efficacy.
Sources of Self Efficacy, Bandura.

How do you develop self efficacy

amongst your students?
Self-Regulation
Self regulation operates through THREE major subfunctions: as a self-
governing system. It involves
a) monitoring one's performances. Self-monitoring provides the
information needed for setting performances standards and for
evaluating one's progress toward them.

b) individuals evaluate their behavior against their standards, situational

circumstances and valuation of the activities.

c) The referential comparisons set the occasion, affective self-reactions

to one's judged performances. Anticipatory self-sanctions not only
serve as guides and motivators of behavior but affect satisfaction
people derive from what they do.
Application of Social Cognitive Theory : Teachers
• To promote effective modelling a teacher must make sure that the
four essential conditions exist; attention, retention, motor reproduction,
and motivation.

• Teachers must model appropriate behaviors and take care that they
do not model inappropriate behaviors.

• Teachers should expose students to a variety of other models. This

technique is especially important to break down traditional
stereotypes.

• Teachers should help students set realistic expectations for their

academic accomplishments.
Application of Social Cognitive Theory : Students

• Students often learn a great deal simply by observing other people.

• Students must believe that they are capable of accomplishing school

tasks.

• Students should closely observe appropriate behaviors and learn from

them.
THANK YOU

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