Analyse The Importance Of Setting Ground Rules

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Clear boundaries and guidance on the expectations of everyone involved can be accomplished by setting ground rules. Ground rules should be established with the learner rather than being presented to them because by taking this approach we can encourage a mutual respect between the learner and the teacher, it also encourages the learner to take responsibility for their role in the learning process and by giving the learner the opportunity to have their input in the creation of the ground rules it means that we are able to identify their specific requirements and negotiate how we are able to support them on an individual level.; leading on to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Maslow’s theory outlines the needs of human beings in his view and it‘s …show more content…

In the next level of Maslow’s pyramid there are safety needs; here he refers to the need for security, limits and stability. Again referring back to ground rules, we can draw a comparison with the limits and health and safety measures that are often included in them; for example the expectations regarding attendance and non-attendance and how this relates to welfare and security provisions, rules about the use of mobile phones and fire safety procedures. If these rules are not defined it can be unsettling or even dangerous for the learner and the teacher and it can encourage an informal environment which may contribute to further distractions. Above safety needs in the pyramid Maslow has included belongingness and love needs, for example the need for attachment, acceptance and relationships. …show more content…

The relationship the learner has with the teacher is also really important, respect for the teacher can be an extrinsic motivating factor for the learner on its own and can actually aid the learner’s engagement and development; so I believe it is important that good relationships are established as part of setting the ground rules. The fourth tier of Maslow’s pyramid is esteem needs; the need for achievement, status and reputation. According to Maslow’s theory, if the lower level, basic needs mentioned above are not met then it will not be possible for a person to reach and satisfy the higher level psychological needs. For example, if ground rules were not set regarding comfort breaks this alone could create a barrier to learning and prevent the learner from engaging fully in the session due to distractions caused by the un-met basic needs of hunger or thirst. Finally, at the Pinnacle of Maslow’s pyramid is the need for self-actualisation which refers to self-fulfilment and personal growth. Maslow views this as the eventual human need, the realisation of ultimate achievement.