Social Cognitive Theory

Social learning theory

theory that emphasizes learning through observation of others.

Social cognitive theory

This theory examines the processes involved as people learn from observing others and gradually acquire control over their own behavior.

Learning (social cognitive definition)

a change in mental structures that creates the capacity to demonstrate different behaviors.

Modeling

The tendency of individuals to imitate the behaviors they observe in others. (Think of the effect of popular sports figures on youngsters—that's modeling).

Cognitive modeling

where teachers deliberately model strategies they want students to use.

Vicarious learning

we watch others and adjust our own behavior based on what happens to them.

Vicarious reinforcement

increasing the chances that we will repeat a behavior by observing another person being reinforced for that behavior (you see another student gets candy for doing something so you imitate that student).

Inhibition

a self-imposed restriction on one's behavior.

Ripple effect

"contagious" spreading of behaviors through imitation.

Self-regulation or self-management

use of behavioral learning principles to change your own behavior.

Cognitive behavior modification

the modification of overt behavior through the manipulation of covert thought processes (e.g., teaching metacognitive strategies to improve reading).

Self-efficacy

a person's sense of being able to deal effectively with a particular task.

Self-modeling

Behavioral changes result from people observing and reflecting on their own behaviors (for example when you watch a video of your own teaching).

Self-instruction

talking oneself through the steps of a task.