Developing Autonomy in Lower Proficiency Students

Lower proficiency students are often nervous about making mistakes and many tend to withdraw from the opportunities available. These same students also struggle to find effective ways to improve their English skills. Good language learners are those who have developed effective learning strategies (Dickinson, 1987a). Moreover, they are aware of their needs, learning styles, and interests. Good language learners are also autonomous learners who have developed a degree of control over their learning management, managing their time, seeking help, and coping with pressures and stresses (Oxford, 1990). The author worked with lower proficiency students for one semester to introduce the concept of learner autonomy and how to become a good language learner. The study demonstrated that among other factors, face-to-face communication was the most important in providing the students with the necessary instructional and affective support.