Theories of Learning - Observational Learning

Definition of Observational Learning

The process of learning a new skill, attitude or behaviour by watching and imitating others.

Observational Learning links to which form of Guidance?

Visual Guidance.

Who proposed Observational Learning

Albert Bandura.

How many stages are there in Observational Learning?

4

What are the 4 stages in Observational Learning?

Attention

Retention

Reproduction (Motor Production)

Motivation

Attention involves the coach...

Using visual guidance to ensure the skill is perfectly, accurately and clearly demonstrated.

Attention - The audience of learners watching should...

Be able to see and hear, paying close attention and focusing on the demonstration.

Attention - The demonstration should be...

Suitable for the learners in relation to their physical and mental capacity.

Mental rehearsal is an essential tool for assisting what?

Retention.

What will make it easier for the learner to retain the demonstration?

If the demonstration is meaningful/relevant/realistic/succinct and clear allowing the learner to store it in their long term memory.

Reproduction involves the learner...

Attempting to replicate the demonstrated skill.

It is essential for the coach to increase the level of challenge progressivly so that...

Complex skills can be broken down into sub-routines, which could enhance the reproduction of the skill.

Why is kinaesthetic awareness important at the Reproduction stage?

So that the learner can feel the correct movements to reproduce it many times over, resulting in improved performances.

Motivation is...

The drive/the need/ the want/approach behaviour needed to replicate the observed skill.

How can motivation be maintained?

With the use of praise/rewards/positive reinforcement