Bio3520
Chapter 5
Social Learning and Cultural Transmission
transmission
involves the transfer and acquisition of information within and between
generations
via
learning.
Social learning can take many forms.
occurs when an observer learns a
response through
observation
of a
.
differs
from imitation in that what is copied is not a novel behavior.
enhancement
can occur when an observer learns something new by being drawn to a new area because a
was in that location.
facilitation
occurs when the mere presence of a
can facilitate learning on the part of an observer.
Teaching is a process where one
individual
serves as an
and at least one other individual acts as a
pupil
who learns from the
teacher.
Cultural transmission may take place in three different
modes:
vertical,
, and
transmission.
Cultural transmission may lead to cultural
and the adaptation of traits much faster than
evolution.
Genetic and cultural transmission may sometimes be linked, as shown in some
species of
whales.
Cultural transmission and
size often exhibit a
positive
correlation,
indicating a role of the nervous system in learning.