The Social learning theory and Operant Conditioning theory are two theories that attempt to explain learning as the process through which new information, attitudes, and behaviors are gained, or existing ones are changed. Both approaches seek to explain how learning happens but was put forth in different eras and by other people. They are all distinct from one another in how they approach learning and the fundamental ideas that make them up. The many techniques utilized to illustrate each type of learning are also distinctive.

Albert Bandura first put forth the social learning theory. He later changed its name to social cognitive theory to reflect the significance of cognitive factors in the learning process. According to the social learning theory, learning happens through observation. Identification, reinforcement, and mediational processes are the three central ideas in the social learning process.

Contrarily, Burrhus Frederic Skinner was the most notable behavioral psychologist who studied operant conditioning, often known as instrumental learning or Skinnerian conditioning, which holds that individuals learn by connecting their actions to the outcomes that follow. Three basic concepts—reinforcement, punishment, and extinction—form the basis of this theory.

Through this article, you will see a more distinct and thorough discussion of the Social Learning Theory and Operant Conditioning Theory to fully understand their concepts related to learning.