Limitations of Learner Autonomy and Independence

Paul McBride

Tamagawa Upper Secondary Division (High School) Educational Research Journal

206-211

Some of the concerns expressed about autonomy as a mainstream concept in education include the reduction of autonomy from a political notion questioning educational practices to a simple notion of developing individual skills and capacities. 

Self- directed learners, under these circumstances, often choose narrowly defined learning paths which neglect social and political issues. In this sense, students may be using autonomous techniques without actually becoming more autonomous. It can be seen that teaching practices encouraging autonomy and independence do not automatically produce better language learners.

Of further concern are the links between independent learning and mainstream educational concepts such as learner- centred education. These links reinforce the perception of autonomy as an unquestioned part of education. There is a danger of the idea of learner autonomy being universally accepted as necessary regardless of local cultural contexts.