scholarly journals Teachers as Self-Directed Learning Guides

2021 ◽  
Vol 2020 (1) ◽  
pp. 259
Author(s):  
Louise Ohashi, et al
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Teaching Methods ◽  
Peer Interaction ◽  
Learner Autonomy ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Research And Teaching ◽  
Research Outcomes ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Learning Logs ◽  
Planning Action

This article reports on research and teaching methods related to self-directed learning (SDL) that were presented by four SDL teachers in a forum at JALT2020. There is growing interest in the role teachers and institutions can play in fostering learner autonomy (Blidi, 2017; Lai, 2017; Murray, 2014; Ohashi, 2018, 2019). This article addresses the need for greater transparency in the practical aspects of aiding students to take charge of their learning within and beyond classrooms. It shows different ways each author approached the same SDL course that they taught at a university in Tokyo, by introducing language learning histories, future self exploration, planning-action-reflection cycles, negotiated goal contracts, learning logs, and asynchronous peer interaction. Through sharing their experiences, insights, and research outcomes, the authors hope to contribute knowledge of practical ways in which SDL can be approached by teachers and institutions. 本稿では、自己主導型学習（self-directed learning、以下SDL）の授業を担当する4名の教師がJALT2020のフォーラムで発表したSDLに関する研究と教授方法を報告する。学習者の自律性の育成において、教師や教育機関が果たせる役割への関心が高まっている（Blidi, 2017; Lai, 2017; Murray, 2014; Ohashi, 2018, 2019）。本稿は、学生が授業内外で学習に主体的に取り組むための実践的な支援方法の透明性を高めるニーズに応える。著者らは東京の同じ大学で同一科目SDLを担当し、それぞれが言語学習ヒストリー、将来の自分探し、計画―実行―省察サイクル、交渉した目標の契約、学習ログ、非同期ピア・インタラクションという異なるアプローチを実践した。本稿ではこれらの経験、洞察、研究成果を共有し、教師や教育機関によるSDL支援方法に関する知見を提供する。

Technology and Learner Autonomy: An Argument in Favor of the Nexus of Formal and Informal Language Learning

2019 ◽  
Vol 39 ◽  
pp. 52-58 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chun Lai
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Informal Learning ◽  
Learning Experience ◽  
Learner Autonomy ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Learning Contexts ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Technology Aids ◽  
Constructed Self ◽  
The Relationship

AbstractThis article discusses some of the current research on technology in relation to learner autonomy, outlining major findings on the relationship between technology and learner autonomy in formal and informal learning contexts. Extant literature has discussed both teacher-initiated technology-enhanced formal learning environments and learner-constructed self-directed learning experience in informal learning contexts. Although valuable in the insights it provides into how technology aids learner autonomy, the two bodies of literature have largely been independent from each other, which may constrain our understanding.

scholarly journals The Effects of Applying Betts’ Autonomous Learner Model on Iranian Students

2012 ◽  
pp. 310-321
Author(s):  
Nahid Yarahmadzehi ◽  
Elham Bazleh
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Teaching ◽  
Learner Autonomy ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Learning Readiness ◽  
Learner Model ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Autonomous Learner ◽  
Iranian Students

Classroom-based, teacher-directed language learning has been dominant in language teaching and learning for decades; however, the notion of autonomy is not novel to language teachers. Since the publication of Holec’s book, Autonomy and Foreign Language Learning (1981), autonomy in language learning has been a significant issue for discussion in relation to language learning practices and language teaching principles. Many ESL researchers have turned their attention to learner autonomy in classroom settings; however, learner autonomy in the Iranian context within self-access settings, classroom settings, and school curriculum has not been adequately addressed in the literature. To fill the research gap mentioned above, the present study aims to determine: 1. if Betts’s Autonomous Learner Model (Betts & Kercher, 1999) has any significant effect in terms of students’ self-directed learning readiness, and 2. if Betts’s Autonomous Learner Model has any significant effect on students’ English language proficiency. Adopting a quasi-experimental design, the study involved a comparison between the experimental and the control group. Two instruments were used: Gugliemino’s (1977) Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale (SDLRS); and standardized TOEFL test. 30 students (group A) were taught English based on a pedagogical model, which blended Betts’s ALM with classroom instruction and 30 students (group B) were taught through a traditional teacher-directed method. Finally, after six months of treatment, TOEFL test and SDLRS test were administered as the post-test and the results were analyzed by means of SPSS software. The results showed that ALM can work with Iranian students as evidenced by generally average performance on SDLRS and TOEFL post-tests.

scholarly journals Promotion of Student Autonomy in Learning the German Language. University Case Study

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (1) ◽  
pp. 231-253
Author(s):  
Sidona Žvaliauskienė
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Foreign Language Learning ◽  
Learner Autonomy ◽  
German Language ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Student Autonomy ◽  
Language Class ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
University Lecturers

SummaryThe concept of learner-centered teaching is very popular in modern foreign language didactics. Specialized literature emphasizes repeatedly how important it is to enable individual and self-directed learning processes and to support them with advice. It is obvious that autonomy can be seen as a key competence that is urgently needed in a constantly changing world of work. With the principles of learner orientation and learner autonomy, the roles of university lecturers and students are also changing. So it seems to be essential for lecturers to answer the following questions: Under what conditions can self-determined, efficient and successful foreign language learning take place in a university-learning environment? How much freedom students can or want to endure in a foreign language class? What are the limitations of learner-oriented teaching in foreign language classes? This article reports on the implementation of the pedagogical concepts of learner orientation and learner autonomy and shows why the use of the didactic principle of learner autonomy in universities is a challenging task for both teachers and learners. The statements are based on the insights gained during the BA seminar on contemporary German language at Kaunas Vytautas Magnus University.

scholarly journals Self-Directed Learning Readiness (SDLR) among Foundation Students from High and Low Proficiency Levels to Learn English Language

2018 ◽  
Vol 15 (Number 2) ◽  
pp. 55-81
Author(s):  
Abu Bakar Razali ◽  
Lim Ying Xuan ◽  
Arshad Abd. Samad
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
English Language ◽  
English Proficiency ◽  
T Test ◽  
Language Learning Strategies ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Proficiency Levels ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Directed Learning

Purpose – In the field of second language education, self-directed learning is really important as it can empower students to attain optimal success in language learning by engaging students to express their ideas confidently, think reflectively and make use of language learning strategies. The main aim of the present study is to investigate students’ self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) in a foundation program in a public university in Malaysia so as to find out how they perceive this approach can improve their learning of the English language at tertiary level. More specifically, the researchers intend to find answers to these research questions: 1) Are foundation students ready to use self-directed learning strategies in English Language learning? (i.e. awareness, motivation and language learning strategies); 2) Is there a significant difference in the three attributes (i.e., awareness, motivation and language learning strategies) of self-directed learning among foundation students?; and 3) Is there a significant difference between English language proficiency (upper and lower) and the three attributes (i.e., awareness, motivation, language learning strategies) in using self-directed learning strategies? Methodology – A set of survey questionnaires with a 6-point Likert scale were administered to 400 students attending an English proficiency course (i.e., Introduction to Academic English) in the first semester of the Foundation Studies for Agricultural Science program. The data of the questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test and paired samples t-test. Findings – Results revealed that the respondents have a rather high degree of readiness to apply self-directed learning strategies in learning English. Motivation has the highest mean scores (M=4.57), followed by language learning strategies (M=4.41) and awareness (M=4.34). Results also showed that there are no difference in terms of SDLR depending on English proficiency levels, namely lower level (MUET Bands 1,2,3) and upper level (MUET Bands 4,5) (p>.05). Significance – The findings are beneficial for students to learn more about their readiness to apply the self-directed learning strategies. In particular, these findings also provide insights for lecturers, program administrators, curriculum developers, and policy makers to plan and implement suitable teaching methods, course outlines, and curricula for the development of the students’ English language abilities.

scholarly journals Teaching Communicatively in a Classroom with Mobile-sourced Materials

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (5) ◽  
pp. 23
Author(s):  
Rupert Walsh
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
English Language ◽  
Classroom Teaching ◽  
The Novel ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Shared Experience ◽  
Mobile Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Material Sources ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Student Reactions

Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL) is now common in extra-curricular language learning, but, more recently, teachers have increasingly sought ways to utilise MALL as a communicative classroom tool. Research into the extent that MALL can transform a whole communicative language course, and learners’ impressions of such courses, is scarce. This study, therefore, sought the opinions of five undergraduate learners on a short communicative English language course based on communicative principles, with materials entirely sourced from learner’s own devices. Learner reflections elicited in interviews suggested that MALL had aided the facilitation of an environment that was interactive, motivating, differentiated, authentic and autonomous, at times potentially more so than on a course using traditional material sources. The novel aspect of allowing freedom in choosing materials caused some complications, though none were considered insurmountable with minor adjustments to the course plan. In summary, student reactions implied that a communicative course could be taught exclusively through mobile-sourced materials, but further research is required to identify exactly how this would best be achieved. Nevertheless, findings here give reasons for practitioners to explore methods of classroom teaching inclusive of MALL that encourage self-directed learning, the creation of a platform for interaction, personalization, differentiation, a shared experience for learners and elements of game-play.

scholarly journals THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LANGUAGE LEARNING STRATEGIES AND VOCATIONAL LEARNERS’ EFL PROFICIENCY

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 39
Author(s):  
Hilda _ Yustitiasari
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Learning Strategy ◽  
English Proficiency ◽  
Language Learning Strategies ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Vocational College ◽  
Language Learning Strategy ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
The Relationship

Abstract Language learning strategies (LLS) are perceived as tools for teacher to educate the learners behave self-directed learning. It also known, improving language proficient. In the case of vocational college students, they practically use self-directed learning in learning English outside classroom since they should pass the TOEFL test after the internship as the requirement of graduation. Hereby, this study identifies: (1) the frequently language learning strategy used by vocational college learners, (2) the relationship between language learning strategy and English proficiency, (3) the strategy used by learners which could predict learners proficient. The participant is 52 students of Politeknik Kota Malang in 2016- 2017 academic year which done the TOEFL test and willing to complete the Strategy Inventory of Language Learning (SILL). This study employed quantitative approach and correlational research as the research design to identify the relationship between variables. There are six strategies of language learning strategies by Oxford (1990) as the independent variables (predictors) and English proficiency (criterion) as the dependent variable. Therefore, multiple regression analysis employed in this study. The result showed that metacognitive strategy reported highly used by learners. While compensation, cognitive, social strategies reported medium used by learners. The low strategy used was affective and memory strategies. Although, language learning strategy cannot simultaneously predict the English proficiency there is one strategy that can be used to predict English proficiency, namely compensation strategy. Keywords: Language Learning Strategies, EFL Learners, English Proficiency.

scholarly journals Language Learning Sans Frontiers: A Translanguaging View

2018 ◽  
Vol 38 ◽  
pp. 33-59 ◽  
Author(s):  
Li Wei ◽  
Wing Yee (Jenifer) Ho
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Analytical Approach ◽  
Work Experiences ◽  
Writing Systems ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Transdisciplinary Approach ◽  
Online Platforms ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Bilingualism And Multilingualism

ABSTRACTIn this article, we present an analytical approach that focuses on how transnational and translingual learners mobilize their multilingual, multimodal, and multisemiotic repertoires, as well as their learning and work experiences, as resources in language learning. The approach is that of translanguaging, which seeks to push the boundaries not only between different named languages but also between different modalities and across language scripts and writing systems. We base our arguments on a study of self-directed learning of Chinese via online platforms in the context of mobility and aim to demonstrate the transformative capacity of translanguaging. In doing so, we highlight the need for a transdisciplinary approach to language learning that transcends the boundaries between linguistics, psychology, and education, and in particular, the need to go beyond the artificial divides of the different modalities of language learning to strengthen the connections between research on bilingualism and multilingualism and research on language teaching and learning.

scholarly journals Teacher-Led Initiatives in Supporting Learner Empowerment among Malay Tertiary Learners

2014 ◽  
Author(s):  
Naginder Kaur
Keyword(s):  
Learning Environment ◽  
Direct Methods ◽  
Learner Autonomy ◽  
Learning Preferences ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Business Studies ◽  
Learning Tasks ◽  
Positive Learning Environment ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Learner Empowerment

Purpose – Learner empowerment or learner autonomy is regarded by some theorists as the self-propelled, sole effort of the learner. However, in creating self-directed learners who are empowered to learn, the role of significant others such as the instructor is imperative. This study shows how a committed lecturer can play an instrumental role in facilitating self-directed learning among learners.   Methodology – Learner autonomy in vocabulary learning was successfully facilitated among a group of Malay tertiary learners pursuing a Business Studies course in Malaysia. This qualitative study explored the lecturer’s proactive efforts and initiatives in raising learners’ confidence in learning vocabulary. Data were collected through reflective in-depth interviews with the lecturer and learners at the end of every week for one month to obtain insights into their learning experiences.   Findings – The lecturer’s pedagogical approaches of providing sufficient learning opportunities in class, teaching vocabulary in context, using vocabulary lists and direct methods, and building lessons spirally to reinforce learning made complex tasks become manageable and achievable. These efforts were well-commended by the learners in this study. The lecturer's conscious decisions, namely, encouraging collaborative learning tasks and not forcing reluctant speakers were guided by her awareness of the learners’ cultural background which impinged on their learning preferences, thus, creating a non-threatening learning environment.   Significance – This study establishes the case that learner empowerment is not teacherless learning but is fostered when the instructor is able to pitch the lesson at an appropriate level and create a conducive and positive learning environment to synchronise with the learners’ cultural traits.

scholarly journals Introduction to the Special Issue

2021 ◽  
pp. 190-194
Keyword(s):  
Interest Group ◽  
Special Interest ◽  
Language Education ◽  
Learner Autonomy ◽  
Foreign Languages ◽  
Special Issue ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Education Conference

Self-Directed Learning and Advising in Language Education Conference organized by IATEFL Learner Autonomy Special Interest Group (LASIG) and Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University School of Foreign Languages, Turkey (AYBU SFL) took place online on 24 April 2021. It was originally planned as a face-to-face event in 2019, yet it was postponed to a later date due to the global outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic.

scholarly journals A Framework for Curriculum Reform: Re-designing a Curriculum for Self-directed Language Learning

2013 ◽  
pp. 142-153 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Curriculum Reform ◽  
Curriculum Design ◽  
The Self ◽  
International Studies ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Environment Analysis ◽  
Design Project ◽  
Directed Learning

Welcome to this new SiSAL column, which will examine a long-term project conducted at one institution in depth over several issues. The focus of this column will be the curriculum design project currently being undertaken at the Self-Access Learning Centre (SALC) at Kanda University of International Studies (KUIS) in Chiba, Japan. In my role as Academic Coordinator of the SALC from 2011-2013, I was in charge of leading this project in its initial stages, before I moved institution. As editor, it is from this perspective, as someone familiar but no longer directly involved in the project, that I hope to collate and introduce a number of columns from the learning advisors and teachers who are conducting the research and designing the new self-directed learning curriculum. In this first installment, a revision of an earlier article which first appeared in the IATEFL Learner Autonomy SIG newsletter, Independence, (Thornton, 2012) I present the background to the project, the framework used to guide it and the results of the first stage, the environment analysis.

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