The effect of a learner autonomy training on the study habits of the first-year ELT students

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the possible effects of a learner autonomy training on the study habits of first-year university students as future EFL teachers. To this end, a questionnaire was used as the research instrument to elicit the study habits of the students. The questionnaire was administered to 122 students enrolled in a "Learner Autonomy" class at Anadolu University, Turkey at two different times: at the beginning and end of the semester. The quantitative analyses of the data revealed a significant difference in the study habits of students before and after the 12-week learner autonomy training in terms of study skills such as managing school work stress, note-taking and reading, and preparing an assignment/project. The findings emphasized the impact of learner autonomy training on alleviating students' anxiety and concerns related to dealing with their school work. The study also suggests a learner autonomy training for EFL learners, especially for the students as teacher candidates.