Students' perceptions of autonomous out-of-class learning through the use of computers

Abstract

This study investigates the attitudes towards, and practices of, computer-assisted autonomous learning in learning English of 160 students from three different higher education institutions in China. To do this, a questionnaire was completed by 160 participants, and follow-up in-depth interviews were undertaken with six participants and six of their teachers. The results from the findings and data analysis demonstrate students' attitudes towards computer-assisted autonomous English learning. Furthermore, the students have a positive view of computer-assisted autonomous learning. Also, it is believed that, with the development of Information Technology (IT), some English language learning problems, such as inefficient learning strategies and limited oral and listening ability that English teaching in China has faced for many years, may be solved. Finally, both the students and the teachers have made favourable comments on the effectiveness of computer assisted language learning, which is more effective than other ways to learn English. Based on the findings of this study, some main implications are presented. Recommendations are also made for enhancing teacher training, updating English coursebooks with relevant websites and investing more funds in learning facilities for higher education students. © the author(s), with first publication rights granted to the journal.