LING6008 Autonomy and Individualisation in Language Learning
Module Overview
This course explores the themes of learner autonomy, resourced-based and open and distance learning and their practical outworking in an institutional context. You will be encouraged to think through ways of facilitating learning and in particular to consider the role of a self-access resources centre in the language learning process, including the place of technology. There will be plenty of opportunity to observe and work with learners using the Centre for Language Study (CLS) Language Resources Centre. Apart from the theoretical base which underpins the concept of learner autonomy, the topics covered, and their precise focus, will be selected in consultation with the course participants and the final programme will be drawn up after the first meeting.
Aims and Objectives
Module Aims
• develop the themes of individualisation, learner autonomy, resourced-based and open and distance learning and their practical application in an institutional context; • engage with the theoretical concepts which underpin these themes; • allow you to explore your particular interests.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- current thinking in the area of learner autonomy and its related concepts;
- the theoretical and practical issues relating to the area of learner autonomy such as needs analysis, learner strategies; learner support and training, materials design, use of technology and self-access centre design and use.
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- critically evaluate the theories, approaches and practical solutions that have been introduced during the module;
- identify and analyse the issues surrounding the development of learner autonomy in a range of contexts.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- use appropriate technologies to prepare learning and teaching materials e.g. authoring software;
- plan and monitor your own learning more effectively
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- apply the specific interests in learner autonomy that you have developed during the module to your own working context;
- plan and design learning and support materials for use in a self-access centre.
Syllabus
This module explores the themes of learner autonomy, resourced-based and open and distance learning and their practical outworking in an institutional context. You will be encouraged to think through ways of facilitating learning and in particular to consider the role of a self-access resources centre in the language learning process, including the place of technology. There will be plenty of opportunity to observe and work with learners using the Centre for Language Study (CLS) Language Resources Centre. Apart from the theoretical base which underpins the concept of learner autonomy, the topics covered, and their precise focus, will be selected in consultation with the module participants and the final programme will be drawn up after the first meeting.
Special Features
Seminars will introduce general points of theory and their practical application. The formative tasks set will allow you to work independently or in groups to explore in greater depth the issues raised. You will be able to explore the link between learner autonomy and directed learning at first hand by deciding which themes you wish to cover during the course and which you wish to develop for formal assessment.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include • Seminars and workshops Learning activities include • Data collection e.g. observation of self-access learners; interviews; individually/group designed studies • Formative tasks and assignments, e.g. joint presentations; contributions to an online discussion forum; • Acquisition of technical skills
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Teaching | 48 |
| Independent Study | 102 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Phil Benson’s Autonomy Home Page.
Little, D. (1991). Learner Autonomy. 1: Definitions, Issues and Problems.
Ciel Language Support Network (2000). Integrating independent learning with the curriculum. The Guide to Good Practice for learning and teaching in Languages, Linguistics and Area Studies. .
Benson, P. & Voller, P., eds. (1997). Autonomy and Independence in Language Learning.
Assessment
Assessment Strategy
Assessment Method Portfolio of up to 3 tasks (4000 words) OR Essay (student-chosen topic) (4000 words)
Summative
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Essay (4000 words) | 100% |
| Portfolio (4000 words) | 100% |
Referral
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External