Paper Details

Paper	Session 2a: English Paper 9
Title	The Impact of Self-Directed Language Learning on Student's Engagement and Academic Performance: A Case Study
Speaker	Dr. Helen W. M. Yeh (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University)
Time	10:30am - 11:00am
Venue	YIA 408
Abstract	This study has investigated the importance of self-directed learning in second language acquisition through a case study of two ESL learners. The positive effect of self-directed learning with various resources on language proficiency and performance are discussed. The case study has clearly showed that ‘intake-type’ informal environment can provide input to the language acquisition and self-directed learning is crucial to effective language learning. Through the interviews with the subject learners, it can be seen that the learner with higher English proficiency and performance has been using self-directed language learning throughout his childhood and youth whereas the learner with lower English proficiency and performance generally neglected self-directed language learning. Hence, self-directed language learning should be promoted in schools and colleges by raising students’ awareness of its importance and promoting learning-to-learn strategies.