Abstract
The Learning Theory - Social entry includes sections that define the theory, explore developments in the theory, demonstrate specific application of the theory to HRM, and provide suggested topic areas for future research. Social Learning Theory (SLT) explains why and how individuals learn from observing and interacting with others and through reflection and self-regulation. It includes the central role of cognitive, behavioural, and environmental determinants that continuously and reciprocally interact to develop and influence new behaviours. SLT places equal importance on the learner, observed behaviours, and the environment to explain social learning and behaviour development. As such, it provides a robust and comprehensive theory that can and has been utilised widely to explain adult learning and motivation. While the social learning label has been applied to a variety of learning theories, social psychologist Albert Bandura’s (1971) theory is the most dominant and the focus of this entry.