Question

You have always been interested in learning to dance, but your experience up to this point indicates that you have "two left feet." Your friend, who has read much of Albert Bandura's work on self-efficacy, suggests a strategy called _____, which involves imitating someone who is a good dancer.

a) Self-fulfilling prophecy
b) Self-regulation
c) Vicarious learning
d) Modeling

Answer 1

Your friend is suggesting the strategy of vicarious learning, where you would learn to dance by watching and imitating a skilled dancer, which aligns with Albert Bandura's concept of observational learning and modeling.

Step-by-step explanation:

Vicarious learning, based on Albert Bandura's social learning theory, involves imitating skilled individuals to enhance one's abilities. Bandura emphasized self-efficacy—the confidence in one's capability to perform specific tasks—stressing its crucial role in shaping behavior. Applying this concept to dance, observing and mimicking a proficient dancer can positively impact your skills and boost self-efficacy in the dance domain.

By witnessing successful execution of moves, you gain a model for effective behavior and, through imitation, reinforce your belief in your capacity to replicate those actions. This process not only facilitates skill acquisition but also contributes to a sense of mastery and confidence, aligning with Bandura's assertion that observing others' accomplishments can elevate individual performance and self-efficacy. Aspiring dancers can leverage vicarious learning to enhance their dance proficiency and cultivate a strong belief in their ability to succeed in the realm of dance.