Back to: Learning and Teaching – Unit 2
The humanistic approach to learning refers to the theory that puts focus on encouraging learners to develop an interest in educating themselves. The theory was propounded by Abraham Maslow and other proponents. He is regarded as the father of Humanistic Psychology. He emphasizes experiences in the study of human behavior and learning. The approach involves the observation of the behavior learners and the outcome of the behavior.
Advantages of the Humanistic Approach
The advantages of the humanistic approach to learning are as follows:
Emphasizes Individuals
The theory puts heavy focus on learners and their development.
Holistic Approach
The approach is holistic as it focuses on the overall development of an individual.
Learner-Centered
The theory promotes a curriculum that takes the learners’ knowledge and experience into account.
Promotes Applicable Knowledge
The theory ensures that the knowledge being imparted can be applied in real life.
Promotes Self Actualization
The theory ensures that the learner can develop a self interest in learning.
Disadvantages of the Humanistic Approach
The disadvantages of the humanistic approach to learning are as follows:
Lack of Empirical Evidence
Many researchers state that the theory lacks empirical evidence.
Offers Limited Solutions
The theory is learner-centered due to which individuals with complex problems may not receive proper guidance.
Lack of Conscious Awareness
The theory fails to take conscious awareness into account and acknowledge its importance.
Not a Scientific Approach
Due to the lack of objective methods used in the approach, it is considered unscientific.
Not Realistic
The theory is regarded to focus too much on positivity due to which it may not be highly realistic.
These are the various advantages and disadvantages that characterize the humanistic approach to learning.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Emphasizes Individuals | Not Realistic |
| Learner-Centered | Lack of Conscious Awareness |
| Holistic Approach | Not a Scientific Approach |
| Promotes Applicable Knowledge | Offers Limited Solutions |
| Promotes Self Actualization | Lack of Empirical Evidence |
