FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which learning theory is based on the assumption that people can learn from observing others?

1. Behaviorism

2. Cognitivism

3. Social Learning Theory

4. Constructivism

The correct answer is: Social Learning Theory

Social Learning Theory is grounded in the idea that individuals can acquire new behaviors and knowledge by observing others within their environment. This theory emphasizes the significance of social interactions and modeling behaviors, illustrating that learning occurs not just through direct experience or reinforcement but also through watching the actions of others and the resulting consequences. Key concepts associated with Social Learning Theory include imitation, modeling, and the understanding that cognitive processes play a crucial role in how learners absorb, replicate, and internalize observed behaviors. For instance, a child may see a sibling or peer receiving praise for an achievement and, motivated by this observation, attempt to replicate that behavior to receive similar recognition. In contrast, Behaviorism focuses primarily on observable behaviors and the idea that all behaviors are learned through interactions with the environment, without factoring in the role of internal mental states or observations of others. Cognitivism centers on understanding the mental processes involved in learning, such as memory and perception, rather than external observation. Constructivism posits that learners construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world through experiences and reflection, emphasizing individual learning processes over social observation.