Computers and learner autonomy : trends and issues

This project examines the practices and perceptions of non-native adult student speakers of English (NNS) working on computer-based materials (CbMs) in selfstudy contexts in their own countries. With reference to Thai and Arabic university students it asks the following questions: Which CbMs do such students access and why? To what extent do they perceive such CbMs as assisting with their language studies? Where access to material is available anywhere and anytime, where dostudents prefer to work and why? What e-literacy skills are employed? To what extent do students make use of social networking sites in English? Do they see computer-mediated-communication (CMC) as influencing the type of language that they use? What are the policy implications of the answers to these questions for the development and direction of self access centres (SACs)? Furthermore, what are the implications for the theory and practice of CALL today? In answering these questions the project addresses some key issues of Information and Communication Technology and new technologies; as well as aspects of teacher education; training and intercultural communication; and the social, economic and political aspects of English.