FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which theory is associated with learning through observation?

1. Constructivism

2. Behaviorism

3. Social learning theory

4. Cognitivism

The correct answer is: Social learning theory

Social learning theory is centered around the concept that individuals learn by observing others and modeling their behaviors, attitudes, and emotional reactions. This theory, primarily developed by Albert Bandura, emphasizes the importance of social context and the influence of observational learning. Through processes such as imitation and modeling, learners can acquire new skills and behaviors without the need for direct reinforcement or experience. The key components of social learning theory include attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation, which collectively illustrate how individuals can learn from their social environment. For instance, when a student observes a peer successfully solving a problem, they may be inspired to attempt the same approach, thereby learning through the observation of others’ experiences. This theory stands in contrast to other learning theories. Constructivism focuses on the individual’s process of constructing knowledge through personal experience, while behaviorism is primarily concerned with observable behaviors and the external stimuli that reinforce them. Cognitivism emphasizes internal mental processes and the understanding of how information is processed in the mind. Social learning theory uniquely integrates the social aspect of learning, highlighting how interactions within social contexts contribute significantly to educational processes.