Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which learning theory emphasizes the uniqueness of learners and their involvement in decision-making?

1. Humanistic

2. Cognitive

3. Behaviorist

4. Andragogy

The correct answer is: Humanistic

The humanistic learning theory places a strong emphasis on the individual learner's experience, feelings, and self-directed nature. It recognizes that each learner is unique and has different needs, motivations, and backgrounds. This theory highlights the importance of the learner's involvement in their own education, including decision-making about what and how they learn. In the context of adult education, humanistic principles support the idea that learners should take an active role in their own learning process. This approach fosters intrinsic motivation and encourages personal growth, self-actualization, and the development of critical thinking skills. As students engage in decision-making, they become more invested in their learning, which can lead to deeper comprehension and retention of knowledge. While other learning theories, such as cognitive and behaviorist approaches, focus on different aspects of learning, they do not prioritize the uniqueness of learners and their active participation to the same extent as humanistic theory does. Andragogy, often associated with adult learning, incorporates elements of humanistic theory but doesn't fully encapsulate the emphasis on the learner's unique experience and decision-making involvement found in humanistic approaches.