Social Cognitive Theory proposes that learning occurs in a social context through observation of others, and is influenced by cognitive, behavioral, and environmental factors. Key concepts include that people can be influenced by and influence their environment, and that observing behaviors and their consequences can lead to imitating rewarded behaviors or avoiding punished ones. Implications are that positive behaviors can be taught by serving as good role models, and that aggression could be transmitted through observational learning.

1. Social Cognitive
Views of Learning

2. Social Cognitive Learning
Albert Bandura developed the
Social Cognitive Theory based on
the concept that learning is
affected by cognitive, behavioral,
and environmental factors.

3. Key Concepts
• Social cognitive theory emphasizes the learning
that occurs within a social context. In this view,
people are active agents who can both influence
and are influenced by their environment.
• People learn new behaviors by observing the
behavior of others and the consequences of
their behavior.
• If the behavior is rewarded (positive or negative
reinforcement) we are likely to imitate it however
if the behavior is punished imitation is less
likely.

4. Implications
To teach positive behaviors to learners.
To understand how aggression
and violence might be transmitted
to learners through observational
learning.

5. Takeaways
1. Students learn by simply observing others, so
teachers should serve as role models to facilitate
change.
2. Teachers and parents must model appropriate
behaviors and be careful that they do not model
inappropriate behavior.
3. Students must believe that they are capable
of accomplishing a task, it is important to develop a
sense of self-efficacy.
4. Teachers should help students set self realistic
expectations and ensure that expectations are
realistic and challenging.
5. Teachers should expose students to a variety of
other models. This technique is especially important
to break down traditional stereotypes.