Autonomous learning as a natural corollary of collaborative learning

Abstract EN

Autonomous learning is defined as a natural corollary of collaborative learning; a human capacity to act freely and make informed choices as to the actions we pursue (Benson 2001).

Learning is a social and active interactive process.

We learn in a social context – with other human beings such as our peers, our parents, our teachers etc.

This paper tries to explain what best defines autonomous learning.

It demonstrates that learners should construct knowledge for themselves through collaborative and cooperative learning which help them see multiple perspectives.

Encouraging them to use independent learning resources (e.

g.

computers and learning technologies, self access, extensive reading) would foster their autonomy and self esteem.

This paper also stresses the fact that learning involves language and other tools and what we learn should link with what we already know.

Hence, learners need to create their own goals and plan their own learning in which teachers should promote learning via problem-solving (active learning) and being concerned with process, not just product of learning.