First blog

The humanist approach can be ideal for the e-learning context. As emphasised the humanist approach is based on self actualisation, self esteem, motivation and past experiences. This will be beneficial in an e-learning context if the teachers are available to provide feedback when required, which in turn will increase morale and motivation. I believe the way facilitators can provide feedback through e-learning technologies is through discussion boards with question and answers, and possibly even a facilitator online while the learners are completing the course. For example, if the learners are on second life the facilitator will be online talking them through what needs to be done.

 Learners in a humanist approach will learn throughout the experience of the e-learning context, as these learners are more motivated and try to achieve the self actualisation stage. As teachers we would need to consider how the learners feel about online learning, as feelings are important to the learning process.

I believe that feedback should be provided for the use of e-learning in the context to guide and make the experience for the learners more favourable as emotions are important. It is believed that humanist respond to their environment as they experience it. Once the learners experience difficulty or have questions on the course they will start asking for questions and if there is a teacher or facilitator that they can turn to they will reach what is called ’self actualisation’.

Burns, R. 2002, The Adult Learner at Work, Allen & Unwin, Crows Nest, Australia.