Have you ever wondered why existing educational frameworks for addressing delinquency at schools are failing? A different approach may be needed. The Humanistic Learning Theory suggests an alternative approach, focusing on unmet needs that prevent learners from reaching their full potential. It recognises that individuals are inherently good and capable of self-directed growth and suggests that education should focus on the “whole person,” addressing not just intellectual needs but also emotional and social aspects. Think of it as a holistic approach to education, much like a balanced diet that nourishes both the body and mind. You need protein to build muscles (intellectual needs) and fruits and vegetables to stay healthy (emotional and social needs). Just like a car needs both fuel and regular maintenance to run smoothly, your education should fuel your brain and take care of your emotional and social aspects to help you grow into a well-rounded person.
The empowering nature of the Humanist Learning Theory is a beacon of hope in the field of education. It believes that education should empower learners to become the best versions of themselves. Imagine a coach who doesn’t just focus on winning games but also on building character and confidence in their players. Humanistic Learning Theory encourages educators to create environments where learners feel safe, valued, and motivated to explore their interests. For instance, in a language arts class, a teacher could allow learners to choose their own reading materials, promoting a sense of autonomy and intrinsic motivation.
At Rudder4ife, we firmly believe that the traditional punitive approach to addressing learner misbehaviour is outdated and merely treats the symptoms, not the root cause. This is where the Humanistic Learning Theory stands out. Instead of punishing misbehaviour, it seeks to understand the unmet needs of the learner that are causing the behaviour. It acknowledges that delinquency is often a cry for help or a sign of struggle, whether it’s academic challenges, social-emotional issues, or unmet basic needs like hunger or lack of sleep. This is why we advocate for the Humanistic Learning Theory approach, as it aims to address the underlying issues and help learners grow. Here are its key insights:
Understanding the Root Causes
Educators who take the time to understand the underlying causes can address the root problem rather than just the symptoms of misbehaviour. This understanding develops empathy and patience, essential qualities in dealing with learner misbehaviour. Imagine if you were trying to play a video game, but you couldn’t figure out one of the levels. You might start getting frustrated and acting out because it’s so challenging. This is similar to how a learner might struggle with a tough subject in school. If a teacher recognises this, they could offer you extra help, like a walkthrough or tips, to make the game more accessible and enjoyable for you. Similarly, a teacher could provide extra support, tutoring, or modify assignments to help a struggling learner better understand a difficult subject.
Promotes Self-Motivation and Engagement
The theory emphasises the importance of intrinsic motivation and learner engagement in learning. When learners are genuinely interested in what they’re studying and feel a sense of autonomy, they are less likely to misbehave out of boredom or frustration. Educators play a crucial role in this process, like keepers of a campfire. When they keep adding wood and tending to the fire, it stays strong and bright. In the same way, when educators keep learners engaged and motivated, they prevent misbehaviour from sparking, just like how tending to a fire prevents it from going out of control.
Educators can foster self-motivation by:
- Offering choices and allowing learners to pursue their interests
- Making learning relevant to learners’ lives and future goals
- Encouraging learners to set their learning objectives and evaluate their progress
- Creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where learners feel safe to take risks and make mistakes
By keeping learners engaged and motivated, humanistic educators aim to prevent misbehaviour before it occurs. This proactive approach is a key strength of the Humanistic Learning Theory, as it focuses on creating an environment where learners are less likely to misbehave out of boredom or frustration rather than just reacting to misbehaviour when it occurs. This proactive stance empowers educators, giving them a sense of control over the learning environment.
Builds Positive Relationships:
Humanistic theory strongly emphasises the teacher-learner relationship. Educators are seen as facilitators who guide and support learners rather than authoritarian figures who control and punish. By building trusting, caring relationships with learners, teachers can better understand their individual needs, strengths, and challenges. This allows them to provide personalised support and create an environment where learners feel valued and respected. This recognition of the educator’s role as a facilitator and supporter is integral to the success of the Humanistic Learning Theory.
Having a positive relationship with your teacher is like having a good bond with a coach or mentor. Think of a favourite sports coach who knows your strengths and weaknesses and supports you in reaching your goals. When you have a good connection with your coach, you’re motivated to work hard, listen to their advice, and strive to improve. It’s the same with teachers – when you feel valued and understood by them, you’re more likely to be motivated to participate and put effort into your learning.
Encourages Self-Evaluation and Responsibility:
The theory encourages learners to take responsibility for their learning and behaviour. Rather than relying on external rewards or punishments, learners are guided to evaluate their progress and behaviour based on their personal goals and values. Through self-evaluation, learners develop a better understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. They learn to hold themselves accountable and adjust their behaviour and learning strategies as needed.
Taking responsibility for your actions is like being the captain of your ship. When you steer your ship in the right direction, you avoid running into rough waters or getting lost at sea. Just like when you make responsible choices, you avoid getting into trouble and stay on track to reach your goals.
In conclusion, Humanist Learning Theory is about nurturing the individual, much like a gardener tending to diverse plants. It addresses learner misbehaviour by focusing on understanding the root causes, fostering intrinsic motivation and engagement, building positive relationships, and encouraging self-evaluation and responsibility. By addressing the whole learner and their individual needs, humanistic educators aim to create an environment where learners can thrive and reach their full potential.
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