New Approaches on Learner Autonomy in Language Learning

Abstract

Learner autonomy in foreign language teaching and learning has been a favourite topic for a long time. Since the beginning of the millennium year, there have been lots of studies to promote learner autonomy in different levels of foreign language education at different schools and at different universities. In recent years, many new approaches and innovations have been used to develop learner autonomy in foreign language education. Helping foreign language learners to become autonomous is one of the fundamental and the universal duties of all of the foreign language educators have. Learners who think that their learning styles and their efforts are necessary to develop the learning methods and approaches can be successful in learning new foreign languages. They can also give positive energy to their teachers or professors to develop their teaching methods and techniques. The concepts of ‘autonomy’ and ‘responsibility’ are two crucial requirements in learning and both of them require active practices. Responsibility and autonomy are not easy to distinguish. Responsibility and autonomy are not easy to distinguish. In this paper, their importance and their differences will be explained. The reasons of developing responsibility and autonomy will also be explained. New approaches on learner autonomy in foreign language learning and teaching will be highlighted. Language learning strategies will be handled. Sample classroom activities will be shared. Useful websites, blogs and books on learner autonomy will be suggested.