Learner Autonomy Research Articles

Tales of Online Learner Autonomy: Highlights and Challenges in the Disruptive Age

When the new normal learning mode capitalized on technologically mediated communication, it created a high learner-content interaction while honing critical thinking and collaborative skills to achieve optimal learning. The disruption brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic instilled a sense of independence and flexibility in learning. The aim of this autoethnography is to consider the accounts of the author’s independent learning throughout the pandemic in an online course. The author’s comments, insights, and observations, which formed dense descriptions of the lived realities and were interpreted and analyzed through an autoethnographic lens, constituted a significant portion of the data. The findings show that students who engage in online learner autonomy assume complete accountability and exercise control over the learning process, thereby strengthening their capacity for independent and cooperative learning. Students face difficulties when they are overly flexible and independent, which leads to uncritical assessment of the material covered. The problem can be solved by applying critical thinking.

“My Japanese is Blue, Because it Makes Me Blue”: Centering Emotion in Language Practices Through Language Mapping

Since the social turn in applied linguistics, there has been growing interest in the role of emotion in language practices. This role is especially relevant to self-access language learning in terms of how it influences learner autonomy and motivation. With its focus on autonomy and sociality, self-access learning offers unique affordances for facilitating learner and advisor awareness of emotion in language learning. To this end, this study used an arts-based method, language mapping, for learners to express their language practices in multimodal ways. Language mapping integrates body mapping and language portraits methods to catalyze individual and group reflection anchored by embodied, emotional experiences. The researchers collaborated with a Japanese university self-access language learning center to engage seven volunteer participants in a series of two workshops. Data were gathered through participants’ language maps, narratives shared in workshops, and questionnaire responses. Findings highlight the potential of language mapping in exploring learners’ affective connections to their named languages. While mother tongues were generally portrayed as comforting, vivid, default, and unconscious, relationships to learned languages were represented through more diverse visual and verbal metaphors. Key pedagogical considerations include the impact of exemplars and group processes.

“My Japanese is Blue, Because it Makes Me Blue”: Centering Emotion in Language Practices Through Language Mapping

Since the social turn in applied linguistics, there has been growing interest in the role of emotion in language practices. This role is especially relevant to self-access language learning in terms of how it influences learner autonomy and motivation. With its focus on autonomy and sociality, self-access learning offers unique affordances for facilitating learner and advisor awareness of emotion in language learning. To this end, this study used an arts-based method, language mapping, for learners to express their language practices in multimodal ways. Language mapping integrates body mapping and language portraits methods to catalyze individual and group reflection anchored by embodied, emotional experiences. The researchers collaborated with a Japanese university self-access language learning center to engage seven volunteer participants in a series of two workshops. Data were gathered through participants’ language maps, narratives shared in workshops, and questionnaire responses. Findings highlight the potential of language mapping in exploring learners’ affective connections to their named languages. While mother tongues were generally portrayed as comforting, vivid, default, and unconscious, relationships to learned languages were represented through more diverse visual and verbal metaphors. Key pedagogical considerations include the impact of exemplars and group processes.

THE ROLE OF CONTRASTIVE ANALYSIS IN TEACHING TURKISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE IN THE CONTEXT OF POST-METHOD PEDAGOGY

Language learning is becoming increasingly important in the current field of Intercultural communication. As a result, educators and experts face challenges in deciding which teaching methods to use when teaching a second foreign language. To address this issue, it is crucial to conduct new researches from theory to practice or from practice to theory, based on the fundamental principles of the post-method pedagogy, the learning environment, learners’ needs, and teacher’s professional competencies. Contrastive analysis is a method that provides instruction based on the nature of the language while also addressing the needs of students in solving problems encountered by Kazakh learners when studying Turkish as a foreign language. At this stage, the aim of this study is to determine the significance of contrastive analysis within the post-method framework. The research is based on a qualitative research design. Additionally, a semi-structured interview form was used to achieve the study’s objective. The interviews involved 15 students learning Turkish as a foreign language at the Faculty of Philology, Abai KazNPU. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis based on the “code-category-theme” approach with the MaxQDA 24.4.0 program. The findings revealed that the method supports post-method strategies such as minimizing perceptual mismatches, enhancing language awareness, activating intuitive heuristics, integrating language skills, supporting learner autonomy, and raising cultural awareness, thereby making the learning process effective, simple, and suited to learners’ needs. These results are expected to be valuable for both theorists and practitioners in foreign language education during curriculum development.

Enhancing English Language Learning through Digital Mind Mapping: A Comprehensive Approach for Reading Comprehension

This article explores the use of digital mind mapping as a comprehensive tool for enhancing English language learning, with a specific focus on improving reading comprehension skills. Digital mind maps provide a visual and interactive approach to organizing and connecting ideas, fostering deeper cognitive engagement with texts. This study synthesizes existing research on the pedagogical benefits of digital mind mapping, highlighting its ability to support learners in identifying main ideas, tracking relationships between concepts, and developing critical thinking. The article also presents practical strategies for integrating digital mind mapping into English language curricula, emphasizing its role in promoting active learning and learner autonomy. Findings suggest that the use of digital mind maps not only improves reading comprehension but also enhances vocabulary retention, engagement, and motivation. The comprehensive approach outlined in this study aims to provide educators with effective methods for incorporating digital tools to support language acquisition in diverse learning environments.

Incorporating AI into English Language Learning: An Experimental Study Focusing on Autonomous Learning

This study investigates the impact of integrating AI-powered tool, Plang, on English language learning among Korean EFL learners. Specifically, the study aims to examine the overall experiences of using the AI app in language learning and the impact of using the AI app on learners’ autonomous learning. The two-month study employed a qualitative data approach derived from a mixed-method study involving pre- and post-survey, reflective journals, and in-depth individual interviews. Overall, the findings have shown that the integration of the AI-powered tool into the English language learning helped learners: (i) to enhance language skills, particularly speaking proficiency; (ii) to foster learner autonomy through a personalized feedback system; and (iii) to establish a new goal that facilitates active learner engagement. The analysis also points out some challenges learners faced in the learning process. Some important implications of this study are discussed for teachers who consider integrating AI-powered tools into English language teaching. Considering that there has been little research on incorporating AI tools into classrooms, it is recommended that further research should highlight more dynamic classroom cases by developing a flipped classroom model utilizing AI tools in English language teaching contexts.

Empirical Study of Data-Driven Learning and Generative AI in Enhancing Meta-Cognitive Resource Utilization: A Comprehensive Analysis

This study investigates integrating data-driven learning and Generative AI within the Meta-Cognitive Resource Utilization Framework (MCRUF) and its potential to enhance educational outcomes. It highlights how AI-driven tools can personalize learning experiences, foster meta-cognitive skill development, and offer real-time feedback to improve learner autonomy and engagement. However, the study identifies key challenges, such as over-reliance on technology, digital literacy gaps, data privacy concerns, and unequal access to AI resources. The findings suggest important implications for educators and policymakers, emphasizing the need for ethical guidelines, equitable access, and a balanced approach combining AI assistance with active learner participation. Future research should focus on long-term impacts and strategies to ensure responsible implementation of these technologies.

How does generative AI promote autonomy and inclusivity in language teaching?

Abstract In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has increasingly made advances across various fields, including ELT. In this article we embrace an egalitarian dialogue framework to explore and understand the role of AI in language education. This format provides a useful backdrop for navigating the dual responses—enthusiasm and scepticism—by which AI’s influence in education has often been characterized. We critically assess both the advantages and limitations of AI in ELT, highlighting and praising how AI-powered tools can assist educators in differentiating instruction, promoting learner autonomy, and creating personalized and inclusive learning environments, thus making education more accessible to students with diverse and individual needs. However, the article also addresses the challenges posed by the digital divide, particularly the inequities in access to (AI) technologies in low-socioeconomic-status regions. We also reflect upon how AI can become an obstacle in developing learner autonomy due to the risks associated with overdependence on such technologies and the lack of critical skills. The article concludes that although AI presents exciting opportunities for advancing and facilitating language learning, its integration must be approached with a rational mindset to ensure that it serves to bridge educational gaps rather than intensify them.

Student Perceptions of Generative Artificial Intelligence: Investigating Utilization, Benefits, and Challenges in Higher Education

This research explores the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools among higher education students in Saudi Arabia, aiming to understand their current perceptions of these technologies. This study utilizes the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the theory of Task-Technology Fit (TTF) to examine students’ utilization, perceived benefits, and challenges associated with these tools. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, yielding 859 responses. The findings indicate that 78.7% of students frequently use GenAI tools, while 21.3% do not, often due to a lack of knowledge or interest. ChatGPT emerged as the most widely used GenAI tool, utilized by 86.2% of respondents, followed by other tools like Gemini, Socratic, and CoPilot. Students primarily use these tools for defining or clarifying concepts, translation, generating ideas in writing, and summarizing academic literature. They cite benefits such as ease of access, time-saving, and instant feedback. However, they express concerns about the challenges, including subscription fees, unreliable information, plagiarism, reduced human-to-human interaction, and impacts on learning autonomy. This study underscores the need for increased awareness, ethical guidelines, and robust academic integrity measures to ensure the responsible use of GenAI tools in educational settings. These findings highlight the need for a balanced utilization of GenAI tools in higher education that maximizes benefits while addressing potential challenges and guides the development of policies, curricula, and support systems.

Challenges in Promoting Learner Autonomy in Blended Learning: Perspectives from English as a Foreign Language Teachers in China

Blended learning is gaining popularity as a prevailing practice in higher education worldwide. This study explores the challenges faced by experienced English as a Foreign Language teachers in promoting learner autonomy within blended learning environments. Drawing from interviews and classroom observations conducted with five EFL teachers at a private university in China, the study identifies four key challenges: technological, pedagogical, cultural, and institutional. Technological challenges revolve around concerns regarding technical support, internet reliability, and hardware availability, highlighting the need for sturdy technical infrastructure and supportive mechanisms. Pedagogical challenges include designing effective blended learning activities that balance teacher-led instruction with opportunities for student autonomy, emphasizing the importance of scaffolding learning tasks, and providing adequate support for independent learning. Cultural challenges underscore the influence of cultural factors on student attitudes towards autonomy and authority in the classroom, emphasizing the necessity for culturally responsive teaching practices. Institutional challenges highlight barriers stemming from rigid curriculum requirements, limited professional development opportunities, and a lack of administrative support, underscoring the importance of systemic support and organizational change. The findings offer valuable guidance for institutions, administrators, and EFL teachers on how to design more effective blended EFL courses. Limitations and suggestions for future studies such as larger sample size, rigorous data collection method, and longitudinal studies are provided to enhance our understanding of promoting learner autonomy in blended learning environments.

Fostering learner autonomy through explicit metacognitive strategy instruction: A study in the Omani EFL context

Fostering learner autonomy through explicit metacognitive strategy instruction: A study in the Omani EFL context

<b>The Benefits and Weaknesses of ChatGPT on Students’ Learning Writing</b>

ChatGPT is seen as an Artificial Intelligence application of OpenAI in the industrial era 4.0. ChatGPT has been identified as possibly being used in a variety of disciplines, including education. Previous research has shown that employing ChatGPT as a learning helper can help students enhance their learner autonomy, research, and scholarship. Furthermore, studies discovered that ChatGPT poses several obstacles to learners, particularly those beginning to write, such as illusions and potential illicit authorship and copyright. Consider that there are few studies conducted in Vietnam on this topic. This study aims to identify the limitations of Chat GPT that people typically encounter when studying writing, particularly in the Research Writing Course, and explore whether Chat GPT helps learners improve writing outcomes. The author discovered qualitative data from interviews with seven Master Course students, indicating that despite the numerous problems that students frequently face when utilizing ChatGPT, this platform can help them improve their writing abilities.

Evaluating the K-13 Versus Merdeka Curriculum : Impacts on Primary, Junior, and Senior High School Education in Indonesia

This study aims to evaluate the impacts of the 2013 Curriculum and the Merdeka Curriculum on primary, junior, and senior high school education in Indonesia. The 2013 Curriculum was introduced to enhance critical thinking, creativity, and character education, while the Merdeka Curriculum emphasizes greater flexibility, independence, and student-centered learning approaches. This study used a mixed-methods with a comparative analysis to assess educational outcomes, teacher and student adaptability, and overall satisfaction within these distinct curricular contexts. Data was collected via surveys, interviews, and academic performance metrics from a representative sample of schools across different regions of Indonesia. Quantitative data from surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, including t-tests and ANOVA, to compare student engagement levels and academic performance under both curricula. Qualitative data from interviews and observations were coded and analyzed thematically to capture the nuanced experiences and perceptions of teachers and students. Research findings show that the 2013 Curriculum and the Merdeka Curriculum have their strengths and weaknesses, the latter is generally viewed more favorably by teachers and students for its emphasis on flexibility, learner autonomy, and holistic development. The Merdeka Curriculum has shown promise in fostering student engagement, critical thinking skills, and creativity, yet challenges persist in terms of implementation, teacher training, and resource allocation. A novel finding of this research is the significant improvement in holistic assessment practices under the Merdeka Curriculum, which better captures student competencies beyond standardized testing. Additionally, the study highlights the critical role of equitable resource allocation and continuous professional development for teachers in the successful implementation of curriculum reforms.

Evaluating AI's impact on self-regulated language learning: A systematic review

AI technology is reshaping language classrooms, prompting students to adopt flexible roles exhibiting linguistic competence and self-regulated learning (SRL) skills. Considerable studies explore the necessary integrated learning perspectives, emphasizing AI's adaptive role as a mind tool. In AI-mediated language learning, the technology's metacognitive importance enables students to learn with AI as a partner, encouraging independent critical thinking. Within Zimmerman's SRL model, AI as a mind tool is integrated for improving language students' strategic employment in a cyclical process. A systematic review, following PRISMA protocols, examines the intersection of AI and self-regulated language learning (SRLL) over 2000–2022. Findings highlight AI's evolving role, predominantly through algorithms and systems, aiming for micro and macro integration. Interactive AI has not fully engaged in two-way directions, despite a familiar process approach in reviewed studies. In the favored ESL/EFL research context, task-specific AI is utilized to encourage cyclical improvement with learner autonomy enhancement mainly among higher education students at intermediate level or above. Pedagogical values are possible when major SRL phases are fully practiced, even without highly autonomous AI. Future research is directed toward adaptive personalized technology by exploring the dynamic interplay between AI technologies and SRLL as educational practices under Education 4.0 principles.

Student experiences of agile-blended learning in emergency online education: insights from a participatory case study

PurposeThis study examined the implementation of an agile-blended learning (ABL) approach in a master-level early childhood research course and assessed its impact on the learning experience. The purpose was to understand how incorporating ABL concepts affected flexibility, learner autonomy, collaboration and technology mediation, the core principles of ABL.Design/methodology/approachA participatory case study methodology was employed to gather insights from 40 students regarding their experiences in the redesigned research course. Data were collected through interviews, observations and document analysis. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed and quantitative data descriptively analyzed.FindingsABL fostered flexibility, convenience and learner autonomy. However, students desired richer interpersonal interactions. Technological integration enhanced learning, but social presence was lacking.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was limited to a specific master-level early childhood education course and focused on a particular group of students. Further research is needed to examine the generalizability of the findings in different educational contexts and student populations.Practical implicationsRecommendations include ongoing professional development and support systems to optimize ABL realization. Sustaining ABL practices necessitates flexible, empowering institutional structures.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature by exploring the potential of ABL in the context of early childhood research education. It provides empirical evidence of the benefits of ABL for increased flexibility, learner autonomy, collaboration and technology mediation. The case study design adds to the originality by offering insights into the practical implementation of ABL in an educational setting.

An Investigation Into the Relationship Between Saudi College EFL Learners’ Motivational Orientations, Learning Autonomy, and Achievement

An Investigation Into the Relationship Between Saudi College EFL Learners’ Motivational Orientations, Learning Autonomy, and Achievement

Implementing Problem-based Learning to Secondary School EFL learners at the International School of China for Developing Communicative Competence

As the global demand for complex talent increases, the purpose of teaching and learning is no longer simply to transmit knowledge, but also to develop students’ ability to ask questions, analyze problems and solve them (Reed et al, 2021). The traditional teacher-centered, passive learning approach no longer meets the teaching context of social development and strong international competitiveness (Ting et al., 2021). PBL (Problem-based learning) is a form of self-directed learning and group discussion that creates a genuine context for students to map out the real world, which contributes to diversifying, differentiating, and stimulating students learning (Almulla, 2020). PBL develops students’ practical skills, cultivates innovative and applied talents, and improves students’ confidence in learning (Ngadiso et al., 2021). PBL uses independent learning and group discussion to create a real-world situation for students, which can develop their learning autonomy, and improve their overall application skills, especially the listening and speaking skills (Quinn, 2019). This pedagogical report tries to design a complete PBL project for high school students in an international school of China to help students be able to use English correctly for intercultural communication by doing PBL tasks. Students can deeply appreciate the differences in word meanings, sentence meanings, associative meanings, metaphorical meanings, and other linguistic phenomena in the two different cultures of the East and the West, to understand culture from the inside and maintain their interest and enthusiasm in learning English. By PBL approach, teachers can help students to mobilize their enthusiasm and initiative for learning and cultivate students’ communicative competence to realize the co-growth of knowledge and competence (Larmer, 2016).

Khan Academy Platform for Mathematics Teaching and Learning

Objective: To assess the impact of Khan Academy on the Mathematics educational process for UNDAC students and determine the relevance and efficacy of its content and strategies within the Mathematics-Physics program. Methodology: This research is framed within the positivist paradigm and takes on a quantitative approach. An experimental pre-experimental design was used with pretest and posttest in a single group. The study is applied in nature and is grounded in the contributions of expert researchers and methodologists on the subject. Analytical tools were developed with a reliability coefficient of 0.90, and the investigated population consisted of students from the Mathematics-Physics program at UNDAC. Results: Students who incorporated Khan Academy exhibited significant improvements in their mathematical performance. Persistence in using the platform led to significant enhancements in academic achievement. 70 % of the students reached high levels of mathematical skill development. The majority expressed high satisfaction with the platform. Conclusions: Khan Academy has a meaningful and positive impact on mathematics learning among university students at UNDAC. The platform not only promotes content mastery but also fosters learning autonomy. These findings advocate for the adoption of innovative educational technologies in teaching, especially within STEM disciplines.

A Hierarchical Linear Models Approach to Explaining Reflective Thinking Skill Through Problem Solving

The purpose of this study is to identify the student and teacher level factors that explain the reflective thinking skills through problem solving of elementary school pupils. The research was conducted in public elementary schools in three Van districts: Pekyolu, Tuşba, and Edremit. The study's sample consists of 52 mathematics teachers and 1126 elementary school pupils. "Participant Information Form," "Reflective Thinking Ability Through Problem Solving Scale," and "Mathematics Problem Solving Attitude Scale" are data gathering tools for pupils. Teachers' data was gathered using the "Participant Information Form," the "Reflective Thinking Tendency Scale for Teachers and Preservice Teachers," and the "Scale for Learner Autonomy Support." According to the results, it is found that the 90 % of variance in dependent variable can be explained by student level variables. Teacher level variables could explain 10% of outcome variance. The gender of students, receiving private tuition, book reading frequency, time devoted to studying mathematics, and attitude through problem solving are significant factors that can predict the dependent variable. Moreover, students' reflective thinking ability can be significantly influenced by teacher-level factors, such as teachers' knowledge of problem-solving steps and their tendency for reflective thinking. The authors recommend education or seminars that develop teachers’ reflective thinking tendency and problem-solving courses be provided in mathematics teaching undergraduate programs. Students should be supported in gaining reading habit and activities that have positive impact on the students’ problem-solving attitude.

How do high-achieving students learn languages online?

The impact of language learning strategy use on achievement has been extensively researched in the traditional foreign language classroom. However, little is known about this topic in the context of online learning. In addition, previous research has focused primarily on English as a foreign or second language. This study fills these gaps by investigating the use of language learning strategies by students taking a beginner-level online course in a foreign language other than English at a Swedish university. The study examined the extent to which students used language learning strategies, whether age was related to the use of language learning strategies, and whether language learning strategy use increased the likelihood of foreign language achievement, operationalised as receiving the highest final course grade. Participants (n= 108), aged 19–76 years (M = 37.6), completed the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (Oxford, 1990). Three main findings emerged from the study. First, the students used metacognitive strategies most frequently, which could be explained by the fact that the online format requires great learner autonomy. Second, age was negatively but weakly related to the use of memory and affective strategies. Third, the use of cognitive strategies significantly increased the likelihood of foreign language achievement almost tenfold. Thus, this category of strategies appeared to be a strong predictor of achievement among the study participants.