1. 1 Learning by Observation Module 23

2. 2 Learning by Observation  Bandura’s Experiments  Applications of Observational Learning

3. 3 Learning by Observation Higher animals especially humans learn through observing and imitating others. Monkey on the right imitates monkey on the left in touching the pictures in a certain order to get reward. © Herb Terrace

4. 4 Mirror Neurons Neuroscientist have discovered (mirror) neurons in the brain of animals and humans that activate during observational learning. Reprinted with permission from the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Subiaul et al., Science 305: 407-410 (2004) © 2004 AAAS.

5. 5 Imitation Onset Learning by observation comes about early in life. This 14 month old child imitates the adult on TV in pulling a toy apart. Meltzoff, A.N. (1998). Imitation of televised models by infants. Child Development, 59 1221-1229. Photos Courtesy of A.N. Meltzoff and M. Hanuk.

6. 6 Bandura's Experiments Bandura's Bobo doll study (1961) indicated that individuals (children) learn through imitating others who receive reward and punishments. Courtesy of Albert Bandura, Stanford University

7. 7 Applications of Observational Learning Bad news from Bandura’s studies is that antisocial models (family, neighborhood or TV) may have antisocial effects.

8. 8 Positive Observational Learning The good news is that prosocial (positive, helpful) models can have prosocial effects. Bob Daemmrich/ The Image Works

9. 9 Television and Observational Learning Gentile et al., (2004) showed that elementary school going children who were exposed to violent television, videos and video games expressed increased aggression. Ron Chapple/ Taxi/ Getty Images

10. 10 Modeling Violence Research has shown that viewing media violence does lead to increased expression of aggression. Children modeling after pro wrestlers Bob Daemmrich/ The Image Works Glassman/ The Image Works