Autonomy in Language Education: Theory, Research and Practice

Autonomy in Language Education provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of Henri Holec's 1979 book, exploring theoretical, empirical, conceptual, methodological, ethical, and political developments, and offering practical implications for teaching, learning, and teacher education.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Autonomy in Language Education presents a comprehensive and innovative exploration of a multifaceted and understudied domain in language pedagogy. Comprising nineteen original chapters, this book critically examines the profound impact of Henri Holec's seminal 1979 publication, Autonomy in Foreign Language Learning. It delves into theoretical, empirical, conceptual, methodological, ethical, and political developments spanning four decades, offering diverse perspectives. The text explores practical implications for teaching, learning, and teacher education, while also suggesting future research avenues and challenges in this vital and diverse field.

The significance of autonomy in language education cannot be overstated. It encompasses a range of principles and practices that promote student-centered learning, self-directedness, and agency. By granting students the autonomy to choose their learning goals, materials, methods, and evaluation criteria, language educators foster a sense of ownership and motivation, which ultimately leads to better language acquisition and proficiency.

One of the key contributions of Autonomy in Language Education is its comprehensive analysis of the theoretical foundations of autonomy. The book explores various theories and frameworks that underpin the concept of autonomy, including cognitive, psychological, sociocultural, and political perspectives. It examines how these theories inform language teaching practices and provide insights into the factors that promote or hinder student autonomy.

Empirical research plays a vital role in understanding the impact of autonomy on language learning. The book includes numerous studies and case studies that examine the effects of autonomy-supportive teaching strategies on student outcomes, such as language proficiency, motivation, engagement, and self-esteem. These findings shed light on the practical applications of autonomy in language education and provide valuable guidance for educators in implementing effective autonomy-supportive practices.

Conceptual and methodological developments in autonomy in language education are also explored. The book discusses the importance of language learner autonomy in language learning, the role of language teachers in promoting autonomy, and the use of technology and digital resources to enhance student autonomy. It also examines the challenges and limitations of promoting autonomy in different contexts, such as classroom settings, online environments, and multilingual contexts.

Ethical considerations are integral to autonomy in language education. The book addresses the ethical implications of promoting student autonomy, including issues related to power dynamics, cultural sensitivity, and equity. It explores how educators can balance the need for autonomy with the responsibility to ensure that all students have access to high-quality language learning opportunities.

Political perspectives on autonomy in language education are also explored. The book examines how autonomy can be used as a tool for social and political change, particularly in contexts where language education is used to promote national identity, cultural preservation, or social mobility. It explores how educators can use autonomy to promote inclusive and equitable language education practices that serve the needs of diverse student populations.

In conclusion, Autonomy in Language Education is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and innovative exploration of autonomy in language education. The book provides a wealth of insights and practical recommendations for teaching, learning, and teacher education. By critically examining the impact of Henri Holec's seminal publication, as well as theoretical, empirical, conceptual, methodological, ethical, and political developments over the last forty years, the book contributes to the ongoing development of this essential field. As language educators continue to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, this book serves as a valuable resource for promoting student-centered, autonomous, and effective language learning practices.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367539955