Argues that before autonomous approaches to language learning are implemented, it is necessary to gauge learners' readiness for the behavioral change that autonomy implies. Data collected from a questionnaire on learner beliefs about language learning is presented. Factor analysis of subjects' responses indicated six underlying dimensions. (41…

Discusses learner autonomy in formal language learning contexts. The author considers how autonomy is to be fostered, focusing first on learning strategies and learner training and then on the pedagogical dialogue and role of the teacher. It is argued that learning arises from interaction, which is characterized by interdependence. (26 references)…

A collection of case studies illustrates the reactions of overseas and British bilingual students in higher education in Britain to a procedure used to initiate a self-directed learning program in study skills. The self-assessment procedure is briefly described and insights into students' feelings about learning are discussed. (Author/VWL)

Clarifies the nature of second-language (L2) self-instruction involving the use of self-instructional broadcast materials, with particular reference to Japan, where such materials are widely used. Analysis of responses to an open-ended questionnaire administered to 138 university students reveals benefits and problems associated with this mode of…

A common theme in justifications for autonomy in language learning is that autonomous learners become more highly motivated and work more effectively. This paper reviews the literature on motivation and suggests that an important link exists between autonomy and some theories of motivation that could explain the claimed power of autonomy. (24…

Studied the language-learning beliefs of a group of students enrolled in an English for academic purposes course. Drew on results of an earlier study of language-learning beliefs that used factor analysis to identify six dimensions underlying learner responses to a questionnaire, and explored the relationship between each factor and autonomous…