Autonomous Learning

Encouraging autonomy in learning is one of the goals and and ongoing task of tutors.  This can definitely be a challenge with adult ESL learners who may come from cultures where they are used to being spoon-fed.  How can we help English learning become more self-directed?  Tutors can try to incorporate the following strategies:

• Create a safe tutor/learner environment so that your learner is willing to take risks, ask questions, express opinions, communicate in English, etc. without fear
• Work with your learner to consider his/her learning styles - do one of the on-line inventories together
• Include learning strategies in lessons so that the learner takes an active approach in order to learn smarter rather than harder
• Appropriate activities during tutoring sessions will ensure active participation
• Encourage self-editing - don't fall into the temptation of correcting errors
• Expect homework be done - even if it's not assigned 
• Set realistic goals with achievable learning outcomes
• Learners need to have faith in their own abilities to become more self-directed, so keep up the encouragement!

I welcome your ideas and questions on this vital topic!  There is no magic answer to creating autonomous learners and anything you can do to steer them in that direction will stand our clients in good stead.