Models Comparison of Learning Theories Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Models Comparison of Learning Theories - Essay Example On the other hand, the humanism theories perceive learning to be a process that is initiated by an individual in an attempt to fulfill their potential. This paper draws a comparison between the hierarchy of needs theory by Abraham Maslow, social learning theory by Albert Bandura and the attribution theory by Bernard Weiner. The three learning theories are based on certain assumptions. According to Bandura’s social learning theory, a change in behavior is the indicator of learning. It is grounded on the assumption that learning is largely influenced by the environment; this indicates that people learn through observing others. In addition, this theory agrees with the cognitive learning theory by emphasizing that the mental state of an individual is an integral part of the learning process. On the other hand, the attribution theory as developed by Weiner assumes that people have the tendency of determining causes of certain situations or behaviors. It deals with the cognitive processes and their influence on learning. It also observes that learning involves an integration of old knowledge and the new one. The attribution theory is founded on the view that people endeavor to attribute causes to behaviors. Finally, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory assumes that people desire to satisfy their needs in a systematic and hierarchical manner, such that when one need is satisfied when a person desires to satisfy a higher need in the hierarchy. Maslow came up with a pyramid made up of five levels of needs to be met hierarchically. According to Abraham Maslow (1943), the people’s needs fall into five categories. These needs are met consecutively, with one need being satisfied after the other. The physiological needs are the first to be satisfied followed by safety needs, love/belonging needs, esteem needs, and finally, self-actualization needs. According to Maslow, what people need is a positive self-regard in order to achieve in their engagements.