August 13, 2023

Humanism: This theory is closely related to constructivism and adult learning

theory, and states that learning is a natural desire with the ultimate goal of
achieving self-actualization. Individuals function under needs that begin from
those basic physiological needs of survival and culminate at self-actualization,
which rests at the pinnacle of this hierarchy. All humans strive for self-
actualization, which refers to a state wherein one feels that all their emotional,
physical, and cognitive needs have been fulfilled. Humanistic learning theory
emphasizes the freedom and autonomy of learners. It connects the ability to learn
with the fulfillment of other needs (building on Maslow's hierarchy) and the
perceived utility of the knowledge by the learner.
A learning style, on the other hand, refers to the way an individual prefers to
absorb, process, comprehend and retain a new piece of information. While a
learning theory explains how learning takes place, a learning style describes the
preferred method of learning. Learning styles fall into seven basic categories,
namely, physical, logical, social, solitary, visual, aural, and verbal. While
descriptions of learning styles exist, catering to a preferred "learning style" leads to
no improved outcomes in learning and may guide learners to avoid material
presented in a manner that they feel is more uncomfortable.
In the humanistic approach, a teacher would allow students to learn by their own
free will and desire for knowledge. Since humanists believe that the desire to learn
is innate and aimed towards the ultimate goal of self-actualization, the motivation
must come from the learner. Although there is often a clear minimal structure for
the teaching, the responsibility is on the students to learn as they wish to.

Prepared by: AIME B. TUMUTOD