Reflection 1: Maslow Hierarchy of Needs

Theory: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

What is the Theory?

            Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a organized ranking system focusing on what the fundamental needs for a child are in their development. The hierarchy forms the shape of a pyramid with the needs at the bottom representing the base of the pyramid. In order for students to be successful and fulfill their needs at the top of the pyramid they need to be provided with the fundamentals at the bottom of the pyramid. Once they are provided with their basic needs at the bottom they need to be placed in an environment where they can move beyond the physical needs and also fulfill their emotional, mental and spiritual needs.

What are the Bases of the Pyramid?

            The bottom base of the pyramid are the physical needs including water, sleep food and air. The second base from the bottom is physical safety, which relates to elements of the child’s environment including comfort, classroom arrangement and shelter. The middle base was belonging which focuses on elements of the child’s experience including acceptance, community, and positive relationships. The second base from the top is self-esteem, which focuses on aspects of the child’s motivation including support, identity and confidence. The top base is self-actualization, which focuses on the child recognizing their role and impact both with in the school and the larger community. The aspects that are focused on in this base include creativity, purpose and potential.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

Why is this Theory Important for Teaching Drama?

            This theory is relevant not just for teaching drama but also for the development of students amongst all subjects and grade levels. If schools and classrooms fail to provide students with the needs in this pyramid they will not feel like they can safely and successfully navigate through their education. Maslow’s theory is relevant to teaching drama because I believe the core of drama education should focus on getting students to think creatively and allowing them to recognize their artistic potential in the form of drama. Creative thinking and potential are both highlighted at the top of pyramid. The second base self-esteem is also essential for drama because if students do not feel like they have the support and confidence form their teachers and peers they will not be motivated to take chances and put themselves out there that is important in drama. As an educator I want to make sure these needs of students are being met because if they are not they will not develop the skills essential in getting students to develop that creative mindset that will carry them through in all areas of the arts but also in their professional lives.