What is Independent Learning

1
What is Independent Learning?

• Independent Learning or Learner Autonomy

2
What is Independent Learning?

• Some terms used to describe it
• Learner responsibility
• Self-directed learning
• Learner autonomy
• Lifelong learning
• Learning to learn

3
A Definition

• Learner Autonomy
• is characterized by a readiness to take charge
  of ones own learning in the services of ones
  needs and purposes.
• Dam (19951)

4
Characteristics of Dependent Learners

• Dependent Learners
• Rely heavily on the teacher
• Cannot make decisions about their learning
• Do not know their strengths and weaknesses
• Think that the teacher is responsible for all
  their learning
• Do not plan or set goals
• Do not connect classroom learning the real
• world
• Are motivated by grades awards
• Do not reflect on their learning
• (Jo Maynard Robin Sorflaten, Zayed University)

5
Independent Learners

• Independent Learners
• Know their own Learning Style
  
• Are self reliant
• Can make informed decisions about their learning
• Know their strengths weaknesses
• Take responsibility for their own learning
• Plan set goals
• Connect classroom learning to the real world
• Are motivated by making progress in learning
• Reflect on the learning process and their
• progress
• (Jo Maynard Robin Sorflaten, Zayed University)

6
How can being an independent learner benefit me?

• By
• being a more confident learner
• making learning enjoyable
• making decisions about my own learning
• developing better time management skills
• learning to take responsibility
• learning how to study more effectively
• becoming a more successful student overall

7
What can I do to become an independent learner?

• By
• looking at what I need help with
• looking at what I am good at
• learning to edit or check my own work
• asking for help from peers or faculty
• finding out what materials are available in the
  library or on the internet

8
What can I do to become an independent learner?

• By
• completing a Needs Analysis Worksheet
• completing a Goals Worksheet
• completing an Action Plan
• completing a Student Activity Log (record of
  work)
• completing a Reflection Sheet

9
Bibliography

• Baba, H. 2001. Self-access on a shoestring.
  Presentation at TESOL Arabia, Abu Dhabi Branch
  Conference, Abu Dhabi
• Broady, E., Kenning, M. 1996. Learner Autonomy
  an introduction to the isusses. Middlesex
  University Printing
• Dam, L. 1995. Learner Autonomy 3from theory to
  classroom practice. Dublin Authentik.
• Dickinson, L. 1987. Self-instruction in language
  learning. Cambridge University Press.
• Holec, H. 1991. Autonomy and foreign lanuage
  learning. Oxford, Pergamon.
• Mynard, J. Sorflaten, R..2003 Independent
  Learning in YOUR Classroom. TESOL Arabia,
  Independence Self Interest Group.
• http//ilearn.20m.com