What is Social Learning Theory?

Let’s take a little time-travelling journey together.

Think back to your childhood. Do you remember every single thing you were taught in class? Likely you don’t, and that’s okay. You might remember the projects you did, the conversations you had, and maybe even the panic over a stress-inducing test (yes- we’re looking at you, mad-minute math tests).

What if we told you there is a reason why those conversations or group projects stuck with you? You tend to remember those key takeaways from great conversations or cool projects because of social learning theory.

Social learning theory was developed by Albert Bandura in the 1970s. He believes that we learn best by observing others, applying the information in real-life situations, and talking over ideas with peers.

This explains why it feels so productive to hash out that work challenge around the water cooler or dive into a project before understanding all of its needs. We actually learn best by rolling up our sleeves.

How can we leverage social learning theory in training?

It works in psychology, it works in schools, and it works in training programs. Social learning-based training programs are proven to have a much higher retention rate than traditional training.

In fact, it has been proven that only 10% of learning comes from formal training, with 20% coming from peer-to-peer sharing and 70% from on-the-job applications.

Training is necessary for efficiency, productivity, and client satisfaction. Leveraging social learning theory makes it more than a box to check. Reframing programs using this theory engrains new learnings into company culture and processes. Social learning shifts the culture to have more agency and accountability. If you’re looking for continuous growth and stronger communication within your organization, social learning-based training is for you.

We have heard from our clients that the best parts of our training often come out in conversations. At Botree, we listen to our clients and evolve our processes to meet their needs. In order to help our clients get the best return on investment (ROI) possible, we’re implementing social learning theory-based approaches.

How does it increase ROI?

Training rooted in social learning theory has a long list of benefits, including:

• More engaged participants, leading to more impact

• Shorter orientation times when onboarding

• Built-in mentorship and succession opportunities

• More cost-efficient than traditional training

• Creates a culture of proactive solution seekers

• Encourages collaboration to support continuous improvement

• Improves communication across dispersed groups to create stronger teams

• Allows people to learn in the most effective way

• Ensures content is immediately relevant

Time to get social

After over two years of lockdowns, distancing, and virtual work; it’s time to get social again. We learn best when we collaborate and listen to each other. Ask yourself these three questions to shift your mindset into social learning

1. What can you share with others based on your experiences?

2. What can others teach you?

3. How can you apply that learning to your work?

How can social learning help your business? Email info@botreeinc.com or book a free discovery call today https://botree-inc.appointlet.com/s/book-a-meeting