Journal of Christian Education in Korea Vol. 61(2020. 3. 30) : 81-107 DOI: 10.17968/jcek.2020..61.003 The Implication of Bandura’s Vicarious Reinforcement in Observational Learning for Christian Education Jongmin Lee(Assistant Professor, Chongshin University)
[email protected] Abstract This study reviews Bandura’s vicarious reinforcement in observational learning process and implies this concept into Christian education in terms of spiritual role modeling. The first part of this study answers three questions: “what is vicarious reinforcement?” “how does vicarious reinforcement take place in observational learning?” and “how does vi- carious reinforcement affect observer’s behavior change?” Bandura con- ceptualizes the learning process with observational learning and imi- tative or non-imitative performance. Based on this concept, Bandura de- fine the roles of vicarious reinforcement in the four steps of ob- servational learning process: attention, retention, motor reproduction, and motivational process. Also, the three effects of vicarious reinforce- ments are explained in the following categories: the observational learn- ing effect, inhibitory or disinhibitory effects, and eliciting effect. Adapting the structure of observational learning theory in terms of the effect of vicarious reinforcement and the function of role models, the second part of this study examines the biblical concept of imitation of Christ and the modeling strategy of discipleship. Especially Paul’s spiri- tual role model serves as positive vicarious reinforcement for the Christian believers to perform the desired behaviors. Also, Paul’s con- demnation serves as explicit negative vicarious reinforcement. Then, the last part of this study covers the implication of these findings from ob- servational learning and empirical studies in terms of spiritual role mod- 82 Journal of Christian Education in Korea eling to Christian education.