‘Mining the materials’: A framework for student-led self-study task creation

Donnelly, A. (2017) ‘Mining the materials’: A framework for student-led self-study task creation. Independence: The Newsletter of the Learner Autonomy Special Interest Group, 70, pp. 17-21.

Abstract

Meaningful independent learning is rightly viewed as a central component of successful study in L2. Given that the considerable majority of learners’ time is spent outside the classroom, the self-study space has become a source of great intrigue for English language teachers (Benson and Reinders, 2011). However, precisely because self-directed learning lies beyond the typical boundaries of the teacher’s gaze, it is influenced by a variety of factors, not least learners’ familiarity with effective independent learning practices. This summary article traces and evaluates the implementation of a framework for student-led self-study task creation with a group of 14 foundation pre-sessional students making the transition from secondary to tertiary study at the University of Glasgow with little or no existing concept of effective self-study practices. The trial aimed to provide a space for students to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses in English and establish independent learning priorities, as well as a more critical awareness (‘mining’) of regular classroom tasks as potential models for independent learning activities. Obtaining feedback at regular intervals, coupled with data from weekly reflection cycles, the investigation tracked developments in self-study practices while highlighting obstacles to enhanced independent learning. The trial also presented plentiful opportunities to reflect on the definition of effectiveness with regard to independent learning.

• Item Type: Articles
• Keywords: Learner Autonomy, EAP, ELT, self-study, self-directed learning.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Donnelly, Mr Adam
• Authors: Donnelly, A.
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Modern Languages and Cultures
• Research Group: International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language: Learner Autonomy Special Interest Group (IATEFl LASIG)
• Journal Name: Independence: The Newsletter of the Learner Autonomy Special Interest Group
• Publisher: IATEFL
• ISSN: 4212-6640
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2017 The Author
• First Published: First published in Independence: The Newsletter of the Learner Autonomy Special Interest Group 70:17-21
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced with the permission of the publisher