What is the primary focus of observational learning?

The primary focus of observational learning is learning by watching others. This type of learning occurs when an individual observes the behaviors and actions of others and then imitates those behaviors, often without direct reinforcement. The concept is closely associated with Albert Bandura's social learning theory, which emphasizes that individuals can acquire new behaviors and knowledge simply by observing the experiences of others, such as peers, models, or authority figures.

Observational learning also emphasizes the importance of social context in learning, where the observer can learn from the successes and failures of others, thus acquiring skills and behaviors in a way that does not require direct experience. This makes it particularly effective in educational settings, where students can learn not only from formal instruction but also from one another through group work, demonstrations, and shared experiences.