Module 3: Learning and Thinking

Section 3

Intro Observational

Learning

Monkey See, Monkey Do

Our last section on learning will focus on Observational Learning.

This is a tough one to learn, it means…

learning by observing.Monkey See, Monkey Do, but so do the rest of us…silly

rabbit.

Humans are the Epitome of Imitators

We humans use observational learning probably the most of any species.

All of the catch-phrases, fashions, foods, tv fads, and vices all started with one person…and then it spread.

We are a species of imitators, which is at the heart of observational learning.

Imitation is actually Modeling

The process of imitating a specific behavior is actually called modeling.

Old Chesterfield here said it best….

“We are, in truth, more than half what we are by imitation.”

My wit is almost as good as my

wig.

Kids modeling vid

Viki Strikes Again

We have watched Viki learn and grow in a couple of videos throughout the semester.

Let’s say good bye to an old friend and watch her ‘best of’ clips.

fire

hammer

nails

sews

fridge

Enter Stage Right: Albert Bandura

Albert Bandura pioneered research in the area of Observational learning.

His BoBo doll experiment drew conclusions to show that children exposed to violent behavior will, when frustrated, exhibit similar violent behavior.

Bobo vid

Quick Facts about OB. Learning

1. Positive observational learning exists when actions and words are consistent.

Quick Facts about OB. Learning

2. The lessons we learn as children are not easily unlearned as adults.

Quick Facts about OB. Learning

3. OB learning can steer children into anti-social or pro-social behaviors, but not necessarily cause them.