Social Cognitive Theory of Learning

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Social Cognitive Theory of Learning

Social cognitive theory of learning is a theoretical perspective that focuses on learning by observing others and eventually assuming control over one’s own behavior (Ormrod, 2011, p.323). Social cognitive theory is a perspective that helps us understand about learning by observing other people doing the same thing. This theory is a blend of behaviorism and cognitive psychology (Ormrod, 2011). Behaviorism theory relates to learning as a stimulus- response relationship and suggests that learning involves a behavior change whereas according to social cognitive theory learning is an internal process that may or may not lead to a behavior change. For example one might attempt to ride a bicycle as soon as they learn to ride the bicycle but learning how to put air in the bike may not be needed until the bicycle need air.

According to social cognitive theory, people and their environments mutually influence each other (Ormrod, 2011). People learn from the environment they are in, people they interact with, and behaviors they watch. People can learn by observing others and as they become older they can set their goals based on the accomplishments and the results of that learning. The video of the 4th grade, Canoga Park is about learning by observing, listening, and discussing a subject among the class-mates (4th Grade, Canoga Park, n.d.). In the video teacher is trying to teach the students about the importance of printing press. The teacher asked the students to divide in the groups of two called “pair and share” to discuss the views between two students first and then he asks the students to answer in a bigger group setting to assess whether the students learned the subject or not. The purpose of...

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...of teaching and learning. Modeling is a good way to promote learning. The teachers can use modeling to promote desired behavior. Teachers can enhance self-efficacy among students by teaching basic knowledge and then skills to mastery. Teacher can assure students that they can be successful and point other successful students like them who have been successful by using the techniques provided by the teacher (Ormrod, 2011). Teachers can promote self-regulated learning by encouraging students to set goals and performing self-evaluation. To conclude social cognitive theory describes learning as an internal phenomenon that may or may not be reflected in behavior and people’s observation of those around them affect their behavior and cognitive processes (Ormrod, 2011).

Works Cited

Ormrod, Jeanne E. (2011). Educational Psychology: Developing Learners. Seventh Edition.

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