What does 'autonomy' mean within language learning? Should it be enhanced in different national, institutional or small group cultures and, if so, how? A variety of new theoretical perspectives are here firmly anchored in research data from projects worldwide. By foregrounding cultural issues and thus explicitly addressing the concerns of many educators on the appropriateness and feasibility of developing learner autonomy in practice, this book fills a gap in the literature and offers practical benefits to language teachers.

"This is an essential collection for anybody interested in learner autonomy. Drawing on perspectives from different cultural and professional contexts, it offers a fresh view of issues in autonomy. One of its particular strengths lies in the way in which it brings together accounts offering direct engagement with personal experience, capturing a sense of the excitement and discovery inherent in this, and more conceptual papers that challenge common assumptions or invite readers to explore and reflect on their institutional contexts more carefully. It makes for an entertaining and informative mix of papers which is rewarding both practically and intellectually." - Dr Keith Richards, Director, Language Studies Unit, Aston University.

For more information about this book and a sample chapter, see http://www.palgrave.com/catalogue/catalogue.asp?Title_Id=1403903549

Author: Richard C. Smith and David Palfreyman
ISBN: 1403903549
Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan