|
This course examines how students of English as a foreign language in Japan can become independent learners. It is based on the assumption that unless schools and universities can train students to be independent learners those students will not be able to maintain and further develop their English proficiency skills when formal instruction ceases. In the first semester we will study the conceptual framework of learner autonomy. We will look at its beginnings as 'programmed instruction', its later development as 'individualized learning' to its present conceptualization as 'learner autonomy'. The second semester is a practicum in which students study curricular and extra-curricular programmes of learner autonomy development in operation at KUIS. Curricular studies will be of the Basic English Proficiency Courses for KUIS freshmen. Extra-curricular studies will be of the operation of the Self-Access Learning Centre.
|
