Emulative and Imitative Learning - Essay Example

In human beings, excellent linguistic abilities and a well-developed theory of mind have enhanced imitative learning (Fiske, Daniel & Gardner, 2010).

The major strength stated by Fiske, Daniel & Gardner (2010) about imitative learning is that cultural learning tends to accumulate over time. These researchers explain that as long as there is open communication the growing number of ideas among people keeps on being modified. However, the weakness of this form is that people may end up copying bad behavior by comparing the cultures of different people (Fiske, Daniel & Gardner, 2010). The strengths of emulative behavior are that, it does not require a model to exist and that the focus of the learner is to change the environment by manipulating tools hence using tools effectively. However, the challenge is that it is hard for learners to engage in joint-shared attention arising from the inability to understand each other’s minds.

I have applied imitative theory in several ways for instance; I have learned how to speak English languages by imitation. By imitating my parents, friends, and teachers, I can now speak English very well as an adult. By watching through social media technology, I was able to learn and develop my social media skills.