Social Learning Theory


Social learning theory has been applied in a wide range of areas and is highly relevant in organisations in formal and informal mentoring and knowledge transfer of new knowledge to learners.

Technique Overview

Social Learning Theory

Social Learning Theory Definition

Social learning theory refers to the idea that learning takes place within a social context where individuals acquire new behaviours, knowledge, and skills by observing others. It proposes that people learn not only through direct experience but also through watching the actions, attitudes, and outcomes of others’ behaviour. Through processes such as observational learning, imitation, and modelling, learners interpret and internalise what they see, especially when the observed behaviour is rewarded, performed by credible role models, or aligned with social norms (Ormrod, 1999).

Social Learning Theory Description *

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Business Evidence

Strengths, weaknesses and examples of Social Learning Theory *

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Business Application

Implementation, success factors and measures of Social Learning Theory *

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Professional Tools

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Further Reading

Social Learning Theory web and print resources *

Social Learning Theory references (4 of up to 20) *

  • Akers, R.L., 1977. Deviant Behavior: A Social Learning Approach. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.
  • Bandura, A., 1977. Social Learning Theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
  • Bandura, A., 2001. Social cognitive theory: An agentic perspective. Annual Review of Psychology, 52, pp.1–26.
  • Bandura, A. and Walters, R.H., 1963. Social Learning and Personality Development. New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston.

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