Which theorist believed that personal experiences influence learning significantly?

The correct answer is Knowles. Malcolm Knowles is known for his work in adult education and his development of the principles of andragogy, which emphasizes the importance of the learner's experiences in the educational process. He posited that adults bring a wealth of accumulated life experiences to the learning environment, which significantly influences how they learn. According to Knowles, for adults to be motivated to learn, their personal experiences must be acknowledged and integrated into the learning process. This approach highlights the notion that learners are active participants in their own education, relying on their backgrounds and experiences to shape their understanding and engagement with new concepts.

In the context of the other theorists, while they each have important contributions to education and psychology, their focus diverges from the specific idea that personal experiences are central to learning as Knowles emphasized. For instance, Maslow is renowned for his hierarchy of needs, focusing more on the motivations behind human behavior rather than the direct influence of personal experiences on learning. Ainsworth's work primarily revolves around attachment theory in child development, and Rogers is known for client-centered therapy emphasizing the individual’s potential and self-actualization. Although Rogers also values personal experiences, Knowles distinctly places these experiences at the forefront of the learning process,