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Learner Autonomy: The Role of Educational Materials in Fostering Self-evaluation

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Autonomy in Second Language Learning: Managing the Resources

Part of the book series: Second Language Learning and Teaching ((SLLT))

Abstract

The development of learner autonomy has become one of the tenets of present-day foreign language teaching methodology. In effect, the importance of giving learners opportunities for choosing learning materials, conditions and methods, is currently stressed. Such an approach to developing the mastery of target language skills is likely to grow in significance as a lot of educational institutions are beginning to incorporate independent learning into their curricula in order to meet the needs and expectations of adult learners. Gaining knowledge and upgrading professional skills, not only by attending regular teacher-directed courses but also as a result of independent learning, can be a treasured experience. Every educational success requires the evaluation of progress that is made at different stages of the learning process. In the case of self-directed learning, a formal test or examination is not always available, sufficient or necessary. Learning materials that allow evaluating language skills could sometimes meet the needs of learners much better than a ready-made test or examination. In Poland, the most popular resources of this type are revision books, or self-study educational materials, whose main aim is to consolidate the second language knowledge that learners already possess. The aim of the article is to present the results of a study that investigated the popularity and usefulness of revision books as a tool in promoting self-assessment.

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Correspondence to Halina Wiśniewska .

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Wiśniewska, H. (2017). Learner Autonomy: The Role of Educational Materials in Fostering Self-evaluation. In: Pawlak, M., Mystkowska-Wiertelak, A., Bielak, J. (eds) Autonomy in Second Language Learning: Managing the Resources. Second Language Learning and Teaching. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-07764-2_6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-07764-2_6

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