Autonomy Support Beyond the Language Learning Classroom: A Self-Determination Theory Perspective

This book explores how self-determination theory (SDT) can support and understand autonomous language learning outside of the classroom, covering learning environments, open spaces, communities, and relationships, and advising and self-access language learning. It is of interest to language teachers, university lecturers, learning advisors, graduate students, and researchers in applied linguistics and TESOL.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2022
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This book delves into the realm of self-determination theory (SDT) to enhance our understanding of how autonomous language learning can be fostered and comprehended in environments beyond the traditional classroom setting. Comprising a collection of theoretical, empirical, and practice-oriented chapters, the book explores the various contexts and settings where autonomy support can be effectively implemented, encompassing learning environments and open spaces, communities and relationships, and advising and self-access language learning. By shedding light on what transpires beyond the confines of the classroom, the chapters unveil how socializing agents play a crucial role in fostering autonomous motivation and well-being, while also highlighting how SDT can augment our comprehension of supporting language learner autonomy. This invaluable resource is of immense interest to language teachers, university lecturers, learning advisors, graduate students, and researchers alike, who are engaged in providing support outside the classroom and exploring the fields of applied linguistics and TESOL.

Introduction:
Self-determination theory (SDT) has gained significant attention in the field of education, particularly in language learning. SDT posits that individuals are intrinsically motivated to engage in activities that are meaningful, challenging, and autonomous. This theory has implications for language learning as it suggests that learners are more likely to be engaged and motivated when they have control over their learning processes and are allowed to pursue their interests and goals.

Theoretical Framework:
The book begins by providing an overview of SDT and its theoretical foundations. It explores the concept of autonomy, which refers to an individual's sense of self-determination and control over their actions. The book also discusses the importance of competence, relatedness, and autonomy support in fostering language learner autonomy.

Empirical Studies:
The subsequent chapters present empirical studies that investigate the application of SDT to language learning contexts. These studies explore the effects of autonomy support on language learner motivation, engagement, and performance. The authors analyze data from various research studies and provide insights into how different types of autonomy support can be implemented in language learning environments.

Practice-Focused Chapters:
The book concludes with several practice-focused chapters that provide practical guidelines and strategies for implementing autonomy support in language learning. These chapters offer insights into how language teachers can create learning environments that promote autonomy, how learners can develop self-regulated learning skills, and how educators can provide effective feedback and guidance to support language learner autonomy.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of self-determination theory and its application to language learning. It provides valuable insights into how autonomy support can be fostered and understood within environments outside of the classroom. By examining the theoretical, empirical, and practice-focused chapters, readers will gain a deeper understanding of how SDT can enhance language learner motivation, engagement, and performance. This book is a must-read for language teachers, university lecturers, learning advisors, graduate students, and researchers who are interested in applying SDT to language learning contexts.

Dimension: 234 x 156 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788929042