Observational Learning. Bandura says one of the ways we learn is through observing others. This can be through a parent, teacher, another child, or a character on television. This type of learning is not always reinforced, a child can learn without engaging, but just by paying attention to the task at hand, termed as vicarious capability. A coding of this information has taken place to be modeled at a future time. This information can only be used if it is retained, which is possible by the human ability to form symbols. “Once stored… they must be converted into appropriate action for modeling to occur…2
Reciprocal Determinism. Bandura suggest that “environment causes behavior, true; but behavior causes environment as well.”3 This is labeled as Reciprocal Determinism: “the world and a persons behavior cause each other.3 The SCT explains behavior in terms of a triadic, dynamic, and reciprocal of the environment personal factors, and behavior…The 1 interaction between the three factors will differ based on the individual, the particular behavior being examined and the specific situation in which the behavior occurs.”3 This makes the model extremely complex.
Self-Efficacy. “Is the belief that one has the capabilities to execute the courses of action required to manage prospective situations.”4 Self-Efficacy differs from efficacy-the power to produce (competence). Pajares says it is also important to know the distinction