Learner Autonomy

1.10. Why to develop learner autonomy

The most critical argument for developing learner autonomy is that learning languages is a lifelong process and will continue even after finishing formal instruction. Thus, the main aim of educators should be to prepare their students for continuing their learning at the times when their teachers or instructors will no longer be around. This is especially important in today´s rapidly changing world where educators cannot even predict what professions their learners might carry out in the future. Thus, the skills they need to equip their learners with should serve them to continue educating themselves their whole lives to face real-world challenges.

Another reason is to help students become responsible for their learning process which can expand to a general approach to their life and the world around them. In other words, by educating people to help them become responsible, we also help to create responsible citizens of the world.

While the above-mentioned reasons might be connected to future applications, there are also immediate benefits teachers can see in the classroom. Since this approach supports self-discovery of strengths and weaknesses in the learning process, it also encourages tailored learning experiences, i.e., a personalized path in the process. Learners can customize their learning pace, and preference by applying their interests which altogether will raise their level of intrinsic motivation and students will become less dependent on external guidance. When individuals have a sense of control over their learning, they are more likely to be motivated by personal interest and satisfaction.

Last but not least, the development of Learner autonomy helps to develop also global skills which are transferrable to any field or subject. Skills of decision-making or problem-solving promote critical thinking and will help learners become more oriented and able to evaluate various situations or analyse the information they face.