Reflection on Passion based-learning and Maslow Hierarchy learning of needs in Educational setting

 INTRODUCTION

 As I open my laptop to write this final blog, I feel a deep sense of nostalgia and passion for the teaching career a passion that has been with me since my pre-primary school days. Back then, I believed learning was simply about reading, memorizing, understanding, and listening to what the teacher taught. However, as I began my journey toward becoming an ICT teacher, I realized that learning is much more than what I had imagined.

In the previous week, during a presentation on various learning models such as Buckley’s model-based learning, personalized learning, problem-based learning, passion-based learning, and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs I was particularly struck by the latter two. These theories emphasize the needs and interests of students. Passion-based learning and Maslow’s hierarchy introduced me to new perspectives on how learning takes place among different students. Their diverse strategies not only changed my perception of learning but also inspired me to apply these approaches in my future classroom.

Therefore, in this blog, I will briefly examine these two learning models, reflect on their relevance in classroom settings, discuss how they have shaped me as an aspiring ICT teacher, and consider their strengths and weaknesses.

 

Maslow Hierarchy Needs of Learning     

    

Human motivation is based on hierarchy needs, often depicted as a pyramid with five levels(Self-actualization, Esteem, Love and belonging, safety needs and physiological needs). So, what I have understood is before student excel academically or creatively, their foundation or basic needs must be met. Maslow believed that learning takes place best when human needs are met in step-by-step process, starting from the most basic to the most advanced.

Maslow clearly pointed out that only if all those needs are met, then only the learning will take place best for the student. Understanding Maslow Hierarchy needs of learning not only help me to understand about the learning but also help me to analyze on the mistake that I commit during my school days in learning and also help me to reflect on why I didn’t meet my expectation during BHSEC exam.

 

 

Reflecting on Maslow Hierarchy of needs. Connecting them to my experiences and observations:

 

1.       Self-actualization Needs

In Grade 12, I experienced what Maslow describes as self-actualization through my deep love for Geography. It became more than just a subject, it was something I genuinely wanted to master. I wasn’t driven by the pressure of exams or expectations from others; instead, I was motivated by my own curiosity and desire to grow. I collected past papers from different schools, referred to guidebooks and online resources, and challenged myself to solve as many questions as I could. I constantly asked questions whenever I had doubts, not just to get the right answers, but to truly understand the content. I revised multiple times, not because I had to, but because I enjoyed the process of learning. Looking back, my approach to Geography reflected a self-directed and passionate learner someone striving to reach their full potential. That, to me, was self-actualization in action.

 

2.       Esteem Needs

Back in Grade 12, my geography teacher, Kuenga Sir, once told me, “Kinzang, you can do well.” His constant encouragement boosted my confidence and motivated me to study harder. When teachers believe in their students and communicate that belief, it can have a powerful impact. In my case, that recognition from someone I respected gave me the motivation to try harder. I felt capable, valued, and motivated—not just academically, but personally.  Through this, I realized how important it is for teachers to build up students’ esteem with positive reinforcement and sincere encouragement. A few kind words, when spoken genuinely, can inspire a student to push beyond their limits. I carry this lesson with me as a future teacher: believing in students and helping them believe in themselves is a key to unlocking their potential.

 

3.       Love and belonging Needs

From my experience, the need for love and belonging plays a huge role in students' motivation and behavior.

In 2023, while teaching English at Druk Namgay Choeling Monastery, I noticed that my students felt a strong sense of love and belonging. They supported each other like a family, and I always treated them with kindness and respect. Because they felt cared for and accepted, they were more open, confident, and ready to learn. This shows that when students feel they belong, loved. As a result learning take place in the best way.

 

4.       Safety Needs

During my Teaching at  Druk Namgay Choeling Monastery in 2023, I realized how important safety needs are for students. I always made sure the classroom was a safe and calm space where students could express themselves without fear of being judged or punished. I avoided using harsh words and instead guided them gently. Because they felt emotionally safe, my students were more willing to participate, ask questions, and learn from their mistakes. This shows that when students feel secure and protected, both physically and emotionally, it creates the right environment for learning to happen.

 

 

 

5.      Physiological needs

In 10th grade, I often stayed up late studying and woke up early, so I didn’t get enough rest. Also, whenever I attended class without a proper meal, I felt drowsy and struggled to pay attention. These experiences taught me how important physiological needs like enough sleep, food, and rest are for learning. Without meeting these basic needs, it is hard to focus, stay alert, and participate fully in class. This showed me that taking care of our body’s basic needs is essential for effective learning.

 

 

Strength

It helps us understand that students have different needs—not just schoolwork, but also           things like feeling safe and accepted.

It shows that if basic needs like food and rest aren’t met, students may have trouble learning.

It reminds teachers to create a friendly and caring classroom where students feel comfortable.

Weakness

It may not work the same way in every culture because people value things differently.

Each student is different and may want different things to feel motivated.

It’s a general idea about needs and doesn’t give specific teaching methods.

 

 

Conclusion

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs helps us understand that students must have their basic needs met—like food, safety, and belonging—before they can fully focus on learning. It reminds educators to support not just academic growth but also students’ physical and emotional well-being. By meeting these needs, we create a stronger foundation for motivation, confidence, and success in learn

 

 

Passion Based Learning

Passion-based learning is an educational approach that puts students’ interests and passions at the center of their learning experience. Instead of following only a set curriculum, students are encouraged to explore topics they care deeply about, which increases their motivation and engagement. When students learn through their passions, they take more ownership of their education, leading to deeper understanding and creativity. This approach not only helps students build important academic skills but also fosters self-confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning. Passion-based learning supports the idea that when students are excited about what they are studying, they learn better and retain knowledge longer.

 

Reflecting on passion based learning and connecting them to my own experience💚.  

My passion for teaching began as early as my pre-primary school days. I clearly remember sitting in class and imagining myself standing in front of students just like my teacher, thinking that after 10 or 12 years, I too would be teaching in a classroom. That early dream stayed with me and only grew stronger over time. When I reached Grade 9, my love for teaching merged with another growing interest in geography. As a passionate geography learner, I found myself naturally drawn to the subject more than any other. I was fascinated by how geography explained the relationships between people, places, and the environment. Every geography lesson felt exciting and meaningful, and every geography teacher became my favorite. Because of this deep connection, I never failed a single test, whether it was a class test, weekly test, mock exam, common test, or even the board exam. Geography gave direction to my long-held dream of becoming a teacher.

 

 

Strength

1.      Encourages Deep Learning

• Learners explore beyond surface-level understanding.
• Passion drives them to research and analyze deeply.

2.       Builds Confidence and Independence

• Students feel ownership of their learning.
• Encourages problem-solving and self-directed learning.

Weakness/Limitation

1.      Uneven Subject Coverage

• Learners may focus only on subjects they like.
• Other important areas may be underdeveloped.

2.      Lack of Structure

• Students may get off-track without proper guidance.
• Can lead to neglect of essential curriculum content.

 

Conclusion

Passion-based learning represents a powerful shift in education. It inspires students to take control of their learning, engage deeply with content, and pursue knowledge beyond classroom walls. Though it comes with challenges such as the need for structure, proper assessment methods, and skilled facilitation, the potential benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. When thoughtfully implemented, passion-based learning can empower students to become confident, motivated, and lifelong learners who are ready to thrive in a dynamic and uncertain world.