A child observes a model using a new tool to crack open an acorn.The child does not copy exactly what the model does,nor understand that the model wanted to crack acorns.The child simply sees that the tool can be used to crack acorns and tries to figure out on his own how to use the tool to crack acorns.What is the child exhibiting?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The child is exhibiting emulative learning, which involves figuring out the functional use of an object through trial and error, rather than simply copying the exact actions of a model. The child does not necessarily understand the intention of the model, but rather learns through their own exploration and experimentation. This type of learning is distinct from simple mimicry (A) and imitative learning (E), which involve copying the exact actions of a model, and from observational learning (B), which involves observing and processing information about a particular behavior or skill demonstrated by a model. Theory of mind (D) refers to the ability to attribute mental states to oneself and others, and is not relevant to the scenario described.

A Child Observes a Model Using a New Tool to Crack