Human Learning & Memory Siena Heights University Chapter 6 Dr. S.Talbot

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory Social Cognitive Theory (aka social learning theory) ◦Def. – learning by ________ and ________. ◦General Principles  People can learn by observing others.  Learning can occur without a change in behaviors  Cognition plays an important role in learning.  People can have considerable control over their actions and environments.

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory Environmental factors in Social Learning ◦Observer gets reinforced by the model. ◦Observer is reinforced by a third person. ◦The imitated behavior leads to reinforcing consequences. ◦The consequences of the model affects the observer ___________ (punishment or reinforcement).

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory Cognitive factors in Social Learning ◦Learning involves a mental rather than behavioral change. ◦Certain cognitive approaches are necessary. ◦Learners form beliefs about their ability to perform various behaviors (efficacy). ◦The occurrence of consequences is influential. ◦The non occurrence of consequences is influential in and of itself.

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory Reciprocal Causation ◦Environment (E): General conditions in the outside world. ◦Person (P): An individual’s particular physical characteristics, cognitive processes, and socially and culturally conferred roles and reputations. ◦Behavior (B): An individual’s observable actions and reactions. E P A

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory How modeling affects behavior ◦Teaches new behaviors ◦Influences the frequency of behaviors (the same or similar) ◦Encourages previously ________ behaviors

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory Characteristics of successful models ◦The model is _______ or _______. ◦The model has _____ & ______. ◦The model behaves in stereotypical ways. ◦The models behavior is ______ to the observer’s situation. ◦__________ between the observer and model.

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory Necessary conditions ◦________ to the model. ◦Retention of __________. ◦Motor Reproduction (physical ability) ◦Motivation or desire to perform the modeled behavior. This may include the idea of self – efficacy in the behavior demonstrated.

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory Self-efficacy: The _______ belief in one’s ability to ________. ◦Not the same as self-esteem or self – concept. ◦Affects our choice of activities. ◦Affects our goals. ◦Affects effort or persistence. ◦Affects learning and achievement. ◦Learners are at a disadvantage when the ___________ and _________ their abilities. How?

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory How is self - efficacy developed? ◦Previous successes and failures. ◦Current emotional state. ◦Messages from others. ◦Successes and failure of others. ◦Successes and failures of the group as a whole.

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory Self-regulation ◦Elements  Setting standards  Self-observation  Self – evaluation  Self – reaction  Self - reflection ◦Promoting  Self – instructions  Self – monitoring  Self – reinforcement  Self – imposed stimulus control

Chapter 6 – Social Cognitive Theory Implications? ◦Modeling ◦Clarify of consequences ◦Efficacy ◦Expectations