Perceptions of ELT Students Related to Learner Autonomy in Language Learning

Abstract

This study mainly aims to investigate the perceptions of ELT (English Language Teaching) students related to learner autonomy in language learning. In order to have a deeper understanding of the perceptions of ELT students related to learner autonomy a total of 20 students are interviewed. The findings gathered are analyzed according to the year of study in the ELT program (from 1st year to 4th year) and gender of the participants. Content analysis is done for the qualitative data and the findings of the qualitative data are organized according to the students’ study years and their gender. The findings indicate that the participants mainly state similar responsibilities, abilities, and activities in terms of their year of study. In addition, qualitative data reveal that although both female and male participants give importance to similar aspects related to responsibilities, abilities, and activities on learner autonomy, they state different reasons for giving importance to those aspects. Additionally, participants give some definitions related to learner autonomy and they prove how versatile the notion of learner autonomy is.