Theoretical Framework: The Social Cognitive Theory

Propounder: Albert Bandura (1977)

The Social Cognitive Theory, proposed by Albert Bandura in 1977, provides a useful theoretical
framework for understanding the impact of students’ enrollment size on undergraduate students’
academic performance. This theory emphasizes the reciprocal interactions between individuals, their
environment, and their cognitive processes, highlighting the role of observational learning, self-efficacy,
and motivational factors in shaping human behavior.

According to the Social Cognitive Theory, individuals learn through observing and imitating others, which
is known as observational learning. This learning process occurs within a social context and is influenced
by the behavior of models, the environment, and their own cognitive processes. In the context of the
impact of students’ enrollment size on academic performance, the Social Cognitive Theory can shed light
on several key factors:

1. Observational Learning: Students’ enrollment size affects the nature and quality of their
interaction with peers and instructors. Within a smaller enrollment size, students have increased
opportunities to observe and learn from their peers who may demonstrate effective study
habits, time management skills, and academic strategies. Observing successful peers can serve
as a model for learning, motivating students to adopt similar behaviors and improve their
academic performance.

2. Self-Efficacy: Bandura’s theory highlights the role of self-efficacy, which refers to individuals’
belief in their own capabilities to successfully perform a task or achieve desired outcomes.
Enrollment size can influence students’ self-efficacy by providing opportunities for active
participation, meaningful interactions, and positive feedback. In smaller enrollment sizes,
students may perceive greater support, encouragement, and recognition from instructors and
peers, resulting in increased self-efficacy. Higher self-efficacy, in turn, is associated with
improved academic performance.

3. Motivation: The Social Cognitive Theory emphasizes the importance of motivation in learning
and behavior. Enrollment size affects students’ motivation through its influence on the social
context and the availability of resources. Smaller enrollment sizes can foster a sense of
community, belonging, and positive relationships, creating a supportive and motivating
environment. Furthermore, smaller enrollment sizes may provide better access to resources and
personalized attention, increasing students’ motivation to engage in their studies and perform
well academically.
By applying the Social Cognitive Theory to the impact of enrollment size on undergraduate students’
academic performance, researchers can examine the processes of observational learning, self-efficacy,
and motivation as mediating factors. This theoretical framework allows for a comprehensive
understanding of how enrollment size influences student learning experiences, behavior, and academic
outcomes.

References:

Bandura, A. (1977). Social Learning Theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall.