What is the connection between Abraham Maslow’s ‘pyramid’ and education?

It is argued, that the humanistic approach allows for real-world and dynamic education to take place. Learners have the chance to take ownership of their own learning, linking this independence to the theories of Abraham Maslow and his hierarchy or ‘pyramid’ of needs. Maslow introduced this ‘pyramid’ in 1954 believing that basic psychological and physical needs are to be satisfied before effective learning can take place. Only once these needs, for instance, food, shelter, and warmth are met, learners can find security, recognition and esteem, eventually reaching self-actualization providing a promotion of education and growth. Maslow’s hierarchy and Roger’s approach allows for the relationship between learner and facilitator to be an expressive and positive model for the classroom. It is through these concepts that learners are provided with a positive educational experience as well as being allowed the opportunities to discuss with their teacher, other matters related to their learning.

Statements, highlighted by Ofsted (2016, P75), suggest that children from poorer homes and deprived areas of the country are still suffering an “appalling injustice” with regards to their secondary education and falling behind their ‘wealthier’ peers. These statements are supported by DfES who have said that every child, regardless of background, deserves a “world-class education”. Although some students may lack the schooling that they rightly deserve, they are given much wider opportunity in further education to establish new relationships with their teachers.