Of all of the different theories on motivation I belong to that of the Humanists. This theory is based on the work of Maslow, specifically his hierarchy of human needs. Maslow’s theory states that”needs that are lower in the hierarchy must be at least partially satisfied before a person will try to satisfy higher-level needs.” So, people are able to move up the hierarchy only when their basic needs are met. For example, if someone is starving and in constant danger they will be less concerned with maintaining a positive self image than with obtaining food and shelter. This is a dramatic example but the same theory applies to students. If a student is hungry because they are homeless they will not have much energy to devote to learning algebra. These issues would probably be addressed by the state rather than a teacher however. A teacher deals with the important needs of acceptance and self-esteem. These needs must be met in order for students to be motivated to achieve in school. A teacher who can put students at ease and make them feel accepted and respected as individuals is more likely to help them become eager to learn for the sake of learning According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, we all need to satisfy lower level needs in order to move up the hierarchy to self-actualization. If a student isn’t getting enough to eat or is in physical danger they will have little energy to devote to learning. Physical needs aren’t the only things we need to satisfy in order to succeed however. If a student feels comfortable in class they will be more likely to learn.
    

    In order to achieve this I will make an effort to learn about my students and try to understand them. This means I will go out into the community, go to students sporting events, concerts, and perhaps even church events. I will also make a concerted effort to speak to my students one-on-one very often. These things will help in my understanding of my students. Once a basic understanding of my students is achieved I can then start giving them what they need; Self-esteem, acceptance, respect, and thus give them motivation. Only when I have understood a student as an individual and make them feel accepted and respected can I motivate them to learn. To make them feel accepted I will get to know their interests using an interest survey and simply by talking to them. I will use inclusive language to help everyone feel accepted.
    

    These efforts will hopefully help in satisfying my students’ needs, although I do realize I can’t give them everything. But, by making them feel accepted, respected, and loved, they will have an increased motivation to succeed in my classroom.