Week 7: Learner autonomy

1. Learner autonomy

Before sharing reflections on what I have learned this week, I would like to welcome Donna Shaw our guest moderator whose feedback made me go back to my post and look deeper into the activities that promote best the learner’s autonomy.

Week 7 task has given me the opportunity to reflect on the learner-based strategy in EFL classes and on how it promotes the development of the learner’s autonomy inside and outside the school. 

Thanasoulas’ article “Effective self-directed learning starts with learner autonomy” has been very helpful to better understand that in developing the learner’s ability to undertake responsibilities and play an active and self-guiding role in his language study, we teachers systematically engage in developing his autonomy and self-esteem.  I have also discovered new tools to enhance the learner’s autonomy such as self-reports, diaries and evaluation sheets.

“...the success of a learning activity is, to some extent, contingent upon learners' stance towards the world and the learning activity in particular, their sense of self, and their desire to learn (see Benson & Voller, 1997: 134-136). 

.

2. Wallwisher

The great discovery this week has been wallwisher  which is a web tool that can be used as a notice board to interact, share web resources, do authentic tasks, learn process administration and language. I have already manipulated it for our online course to share links related to learner autonomy. I’m looking forward to take advantages of all its services. 

3. One class computer

I have tried using one computer classroom.  I used my laptop that I connected on the data show prjector to work on online interactive exercises on TOEFL and TOEIC preparations. I introduced this last week after printed documents for months. The students enjoyed it and particularly as it provides an instant feedback.    

4. Mobile devices as learning tools.

Honestly I haven't got a great idea about the use of mobiles as a learning device. I know that not all the students have iPods or iPhones. In addition the wifi network is restricted to the library area only.