“By observing others one forms an idea of how new behaviors are performed, and on later occasions this coded information serves as a guide for action.”
-Albert Bandura, Social Learning Theory, 1977
The above statement supports the idea that our actions are sometimes guided by other people’s actions. It is worth to note, however, that although we may perceive information based on observation, it does not guarantee that such actions will be applied on one’s own behavior. It is still based on the discretion of the person whether such behaviors will be adopted. Usually, we consider someone as our model if we think there is a similarity between behaviors, or probably he/she is someone that we look up to.
Observational learning happens when one acquires information by merely observing actions done by others. People try to watch on how things were done and try to imitate them. Bandura and his colleagues were able to support the idea through the Bobo doll experiment. Here, adult “models” were asked to punch a doll with children as observers. After a while, children began punching the doll – the same way models did. This experiment highlights the idea that we do things the way we saw things were done.
Vicarious learning takes place when we adjust our own behavior based on the consequences of other people’s actions. There are four types of vicarious learning:
- Modeling effect – occurs when we duplicate their behaviors. For example, I have probably adopted the way my mom prepares the table for breakfast. She will put the mat first, and then the plates, followed by utensils. Here, I have copied the exact way she does things.
- Eliciting effect – occurs when we perform the behavior observed, but in a slightly different way. For example, I have observed from my sister how she does her make-up. I might use the same kit but the way I apply my eyeliner would probably be different.
- Disinhibitory effect – occurs when we decide to do things that we were doubtful at first because we saw that no negative consequences were received. A good example would be when we are driving and we are not sure if there are no left/right turns allowed. If we don’t see any sign, and have seen that cars in front turned left without being caught, most likely, we will do the same.
- Inhibitory effect – occurs when we stopped doing things because of fear of punishment or negative consequences. For example, in a class, one student got reprimanded for chewing a gum or talking while the teacher was discussing something. Other students will refrain doing the same behavior to refrain from punishment.
Apart from the modules directed by the school, and the instructions received from the teachers, I think it is also important to consider the learning environment of the class. It is not just the content that the teacher is trying to impart, but also behaviors and attitudes. With this, teachers should be aware that any action that they do, or any word that they say, might have an impact on the student’s behavior. For example, if a teacher uses sarcasm upon replying to a student, chances are, that student will also use sarcastic words towards him/her.
I have realized that being in this profession is not an easy task. We need to have a considerable amount of patience in order to manage stressful situations. Teachers usually deal with large, diverse group of students and we need to recognize and acknowledge their differences. We should also learn how to manage our own self because students look up to us. If we ourselves are displaying bad and undesirable behaviors, what more can we expect from our students?
With this, I believe change (in a good and positive way) should start from us. We have to walk our talk and practice what we preach. 🙂
References:
Kendra, C. (n.d.). Social Learning Theory. How People Learn By Observation. Retrieved from http://psychology.about.com/od/developmentalpsychology/a/sociallearning.htm
Vicarious learning. Retrieved from http://education.purduecal.edu/Vockell/EdPsyBook/edpsy12/edpsy12intro.htm
Melanie Talplacido 