What type of learning occurs when children observe and imitate others?

What type of learning occurs when children observe and imitate others?

• A. Experiential learning
• B. Social learning
• C. Active learning
• D. Individual learning

Answer: (B)

The chosen answer, social learning, is correct as it describes the process where children learn by observing the behaviors, attitudes, and outcomes of others' actions. This method emphasizes the role of models in the environment—such as parents, peers, or educators—and the influence these models have on a child's own behavior and the acquisition of new skills or information. Through observation, children can learn social norms, values, and new techniques without direct instruction, making this type of learning highly effective in early childhood education. In contrast, experiential learning focuses on learning through experience and reflection, which may not necessarily involve imitation. Active learning encourages engagement and participation in the learning process but is broader than simply observing and imitating others. Individual learning occurs when a child learns independently, without the influence of peers or models, which goes against the concept of learning through observation and imitation central to social learning.

The chosen answer, social learning, is correct as it describes the process where children learn by observing the behaviors, attitudes, and outcomes of others' actions. This method emphasizes the role of models in the environment—such as parents, peers, or educators—and the influence these models have on a child's own behavior and the acquisition of new skills or information. Through observation, children can learn social norms, values, and new techniques without direct instruction, making this type of learning highly effective in early childhood education.

In contrast, experiential learning focuses on learning through experience and reflection, which may not necessarily involve imitation. Active learning encourages engagement and participation in the learning process but is broader than simply observing and imitating others. Individual learning occurs when a child learns independently, without the influence of peers or models, which goes against the concept of learning through observation and imitation central to social learning.