Learning theory – Maslow’s Hierarchy
We have reviewed working with other professionals to support a learner’s overall need, now we are going to look at how we support needs within sessions.
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs
Abraham Maslow (1980-1970) a humanist psychologist, developed Maslow’s hierarchy of needs to help identify what we need for motivation and development.
Maslow’s hierarchy notes for effective development our basic needs such as food, warmth should be met. This leaves room for our psychological needs to be met a sense of belonging and self-esteem, before reaching our full potential – Self-actualisation.
This model is used in different context, but in teaching, it can help to identify and manage certain needs to benefit learning.
Lets see how Maslow’s hierarchy can be linked to teaching and learning.
Physiological needs
- Is the room at the right temperature?
- Are there enough breaks in the session?
Safety needs
- Do learners feel safe in your session?
- Are they secure in the task they are doing?
Belonginess and love
- Do learners feel included in the session?
- Are learners respectful of each others’ views?
Esteem needs
- Are learners able to contribute to the session with curiosity?
- Are learners comfortable asking for help when needed?
Self actualisation
- Are learners proud of their development through the course?
- Have they become confident in their skills and knowledge?
I hope this section has enabled you to think about some of your practices or provided a space for you to think about how or other ways you may approach your sessions. You may want to add thoughts to your Notes on how you incorporate or could incorporate Maslow’s Hierarchy to your teaching.