Behaviour Modelling: Its Record and Potential in Training and Development

Abstract

SUMMARY Behaviour modelling training is an approach to training systems design which has a strong conceptual base in social learning theory (Bandura, 1977). In the mid 1970s, Goldstein and Sorcher produced a now well‐known book which described the application of behaviour‐modelling techniques to supervisory training. In the last 15 years or so the conceptual basis of behaviour modelling has progressed (Bandura, 1986) and there has been a steady stream of studies (see Decker and Nathan, 1985; Goldstein and Gessner, 1988) investigating the use and potential of the approach in organizational settings. The first half of this article provides an overview of the conceptual basis for behaviour modelling training and examines the extent to which behaviour modelling practice provides a valid operationalization of underlying theory. The remainder of the article is concerned with issues of evaluation and applicability. Research on the use of behaviour‐modelling techniques has shown consistently good reaction and learning data (i.e. trainees like the material and are able to learn from it). Evidence concerning the transfer of learning back to the job (i.e. behaviour change and organization impact) is much more equivocal. The available evidence is reviewed and used to produce an account of the record and potential of behaviour modelling training.