Transcript Observational Learning

Psychology of Learning
EXP4404
Chapter 9: Observational Learning
Dr. Steve
Topics Covered
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Observational Learning Defined
Observational Learning vs. Imitation
Generalized Imitation
Variables Affecting Observational Learning
Theories of Observational Learning
Applications and Interpretations
Mirror Neurons
Observational Learning
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Observational (Vicarious) Learning –
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Vicarious Reinforcement
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Vicarious Punishment
Observational Learning
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Herbert & Harsh (1944)
Observational Learning
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Rosekrans & Hartup (1967) –
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Pre-school children watched as an adult bopped a
bobo doll on the head with a mallet and made
comments such as, “I’ll knock your head off.”
Another adult either praised or criticized the model
Observational Learning vs.
Imitation
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Observational learning can occur without
imitation
Generalized Imitation
Variables Affecting Observational
Learning
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Consequences of Model’s Behavior
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Hirata & Morimura (2000)
Consequences of Observer’s Behavior
Variables Affecting Observational
Learning
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Characteristics of the Model – Observers are
more likely to learn from model when the
model is perceived as:
Observers more like to imitate models that are:
Variables Affecting Observational
Learning
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Observer’s Age – “It depends”
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Levy
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Lonsdorf
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Coates & Hartup
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Kawamura
Theories of Observational
Learning
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Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory –
Observational learning involves 4 processes:
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Attentional Processes
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Retentional Processes
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Motor Reproductive Processes
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Motivational Processes
Theories of Observational
Learning
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Miller-Dollard Reinforcement Theory –
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Imitated behaviors were only repeated if
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Potential problems:
Applications of Observational
Learning
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Foraging
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Kawamura
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Sherry & Galef
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Gaudet & Fenton
Applications of Observational
Learning
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Crime and Television
Bandura’s bobo doll studies found that children
were more likely to play aggressively after
watching adult on video act aggressively
Theories of Observational
Learning
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Mirror Neuron