Exploring Students’ Beliefs about Autonomy in an EFL Setting

Abstract

The present study aims to explore the beliefs students hold about autonomy in reference to responsibility, ability and willingness to plan, motivate and evaluate learning. This study was carried out at Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Pasto campus, where English language courses require learners to approach learning from an autonomous perspective. However, no previous studies have been carried out to determine whether or not learners have the characteristics of autonomous learners. A total of 432 students participated in the study. They answered a 30 closed-item multiple choice format questionnaire created to elicit students’ beliefs about autonomy. The results showed that learners consider learning to be a shared process in terms of responsibility. Nevertheless, conventional tasks are still observed as a responsibility for teachers. Results also showed that learners considered themselves to be able and felt willing to make decisions concerning planning, motivation and evaluation.