The process of shifting from the educational practice paradigm of the traditional teacher-dependent classroom to an independent learning environment requires transformation of attitudes, beliefs, and actions of students and teachers alike through understanding and acquisition and application of fundamental learning principles, skills, and attitudes. Dubai Women's College has developed a course, called INDE 1150/1250 (INDE being an acronym for "independent learning"), which illustrates how the educational community can achieve the transition to an independent learning environment. The course is designed to complement the college's 1-year certificate diploma in ENGL 1100 through reinforcement of grammatical and functional structures contained within the numeracy and literacy context of ENGL 1100. Gradually, INDE 1150/1250 became the gateway to libraries and independent learning centers around the college system. Over the years, INDE 1150/1250 has focused progressively on learner independence and moving away from teacher dependence. This shift has occurred in the course's content and mode of delivery, which introduce students to basic independent living skills, such as reflecting, evaluating, decision making, problem solving, goal setting, and finding information. End-of-course evaluations have demonstrated the course's effectiveness in helping women become independent learners. (Appended is an introduction to the course INDE 1150/1250. The bibliography lists 58 references.) (MN)