Improving the quality of learning through the development of autonomous learning among foreign language learners

Baillie, IC; Edwards, R; Flanagan, C

Abstract

This project is an investigation into the potential for using multi-media technology, originally
planned as a support for teaching foreign languages, as a way of developing autonomous
learning. Students from a range of disciplines at Salford follow the University-wide
Language Programme in which they have one hour per week of self-access in the Language
Resource Centre. Work for this hour has hitherto been prescribed and instructions written
down on a weekly instruction sheet. We felt that students could make better use of the
resources and that this self-access time could provide an opportunity for them to carry out
work which corresponds to their individual needs. Helping students to learn to make the
most of these self access sessions may also help to improve their independent learning
skills in general.
At the beginning of the academic year, 172 students completed a questionnaire designed to
obtain their views of their own abilities and to assess their attitude towards self-study. Half
of the respondents were then given precise instructions for their self-access sessions
throughout the year, whilst the others were offered advising sessions on useful language
learning strategies and on taking appropriate individual action during the self-access hours.
Behaviour during the year (attendance, completion of course work) and achievement at the
end of the year were assessed to find out(1) whether advising provides a more positive
attitude and behaviour regarding self-study and (2) whether advising and a free choice in
self-study provide better progress in language learning.

Citation

Baillie, I., Edwards, R., & Flanagan, C. Improving the quality of learning through the development of autonomous learning among foreign language learners

• Report Type: Project Report
• Deposit Date: Jun 17, 2009
• Additional Information: Funders : Teaching and Learning Quality Improvement Scheme