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Relationship Between The Individual Differences And Learning Strategies In Learner Autonomy

Posted on:2009-05-07Degree:MasterType:Thesis
Country:ChinaCandidate:Y SiFull Text:PDF
GTID:2155360245972232Subject:Curriculum and pedagogy
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With the globalization of world economy and China's entry into WTO, English is playing a more and more important role in our life. English learning becomes even more important for school students. Although much time and efforts are put into learning, some learners still cannot achieve such satisfactory outcomes as high test scores or eloquence in speaking. Based on the probing into the current situation of English learning and teaching in China, the problem seems that these learners are lack of responsibility for their language learning and they do not know how to control their learning process. This paper focuses on how to promote learner autonomy to improve the efficiency of English learning with regards to the characteristics and needs of Chinese learners.This paper aims to promote autonomous learning ability among students through examining their individual differences, especially the cognitive style differences in learning and behavior, and developing learning strategies that will assist learners to be more effective in their efforts to learn and use the target language.After giving a detailed account of the importance of learner autonomy and its definitions, the writer suggests that learner autonomy mainly consists of becoming aware of, and identifying one's strategies, needs, and goals as a learner, and having the opportunity to reconsider and reshape approaches and procedures for optimal learning. Based on the literature review, the writer explores the interrelationship among individual differences, learning strategies and leaner autonomy.Then a survey is carried out among among 48 students in Beijing No.55 Middle School through questionnaires and self-report showing that learners generally prefer autonomous learning but lack proper information and skills. The subsequent study has revealed one possible way to enhance learner autonomy by combining raising awareness of individual differences and providing individualized strategy training. This study finds that learners are more motivated to experiment with various learning strategies when they are equipped with better knowledge about themselves, especially their understanding of their own cognitive styles and the strategy preferences restricted by these styles.
Keywords/Search Tags:Learner autonomy, individual differences, learning strategy
PDF Full Text Request
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