Question

Observational Learning: To See Is to Know

A group of psychologists, led by Albert Bandura, developed social learning theory, which emphasizes the fact that much learning occurs in a social context. This kind of learning, which results simply from observing and imitating the behaviors of others, is called observational learning. Observational learning helps people acquire proper behaviors in their families and cultures: By watching others, we learn how to greet people, eat, laugh and tell jokes. Do you still remember your first few days in senior grade one? By watching others, you learned how people talked to each other, what clothes were “fashionable,” and how to interact with instructors.

The people from whom you learn new behaviors through observing function as models, presenting a behavior to be imitated. With modeling, you observe others’ behaviors, and then none, some, or all of these behaviors may be learned and repeated, or modified. In one of Bandura’s classic studies, children were divided into three groups: One group watched an adult beating up a Bobo doll, one group watched an adult ignoring the Bobo doll, and the third didn’t see an adult at all. After being mildly frustrated by being placed in a room with toys, but not being allowed to play with some of them, all of the children were then placed in another room with a variety of toys, including a Bobo doll. Children in the first group tended to imitate what they had seen, mistreating the doll (and inventing new ways to abuse it) and being aggressive with the other toys in the room.

Researchers have discovered that several characteristics of models can make learning through observation more effective. Not surprisingly, the more you pay attention to the model, the more you learn. You are more likely to pay attention if the model is an expert, is good looking, has high status, or is socially powerful. Second, by watching others, we learn about what behaviors are appropriate for people like ourselves, so models who are seen as similar are more readily imitated. All students need to see successful, capable models who look and sound like them.

Then, as teachers, how can you apply observational learning? Here are a few guidelines. Above all, model the behaviors and attitudes you desire your students to learn. For example, show enthusiasm for the subject you teach. Be willing to demonstrate both the mental and the physical tasks you expect the students to perform. Second, use peers, especially class leaders, as models. For example, in group work, pair students who do well with those who are having difficulties. Third, you may seek the help of class leaders in modeling behaviors. Examples include letting high-status students lead an activity when you need class cooperation or when students are likely to be reluctant at first.

 

Answer 1

1.Definition / Concept / Meaning。

2.observation

3.properly / appropriately / well

4.aggressive / violent / rude

5. Features / Characteristics

6.likely

7.similar

8.teaching / education / instruction

9.desired / expected / targeted

10.Seeking

【解析】

试题分析：文章介绍什么是观察学习，观察学习的应用，怎么将观察学习用于教学中。

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考点：考查任务型阅读