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A Study of Learner Autonomy in Tertiary Level Language Classes

Corresponding Author : Tasnia Mizan Chowdhury (tasnia-eng@sust.edu)

Keywords : Autonomy, private universities, teacher-centered, student-centered, skills

Abstract :

Learner autonomy refers to the ability of a responsible and autonomous learner to make major learning decisions. An autonomous learner takes charge of his/her own learning and is less dependent on the teacher and therefore tends to be a better learner. This paper explores to what extent the principles of learner autonomy are applied in the language classrooms of the private: universities in Sylhet. A qualitative exploratory approach has been adopted for this paper and the English language classrooms have been focused on. The findings of the study reveal the existence of a teacher centered classroom where students are solely dependent on their teachers for learning. The study recommends that to promote learner autonomy, universities should emphasise on increasing students' motivation by developing their learning skills as well as providing teachers with greater autonomy in their decision making process.

Published on September 24th, 2023 in Vol. 34, No. 1, Humanities