Observational learning

/ˌɒb.zɚˈveɪ.ʃən.əl ˈlɜːɹ.nɪŋ/ noun

Definition

Learning that occurs through watching and imitating the behavior of others, without direct reinforcement of the observer.

Etymology

From Latin 'observatio' (a watching) + Old English 'leornian' (to learn). Learning by watching.

Kelly Says

Observational learning is picking up behaviors just by watching — Bandura showed kids who watched adults beat up a Bobo doll did the same thing!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.