Paper Details
Paper
Session 4a: English Paper 1
Title
A Study to Investigate the Effectiveness of an Incentive Scheme to Develop Students' Independent Language Learning Skills
Speaker
Dr. Joe Ching
(Hong Kong Polytechnic University)
Time
12:00nn - 12:30pm
Venue
YIA 408
Abstract
The self-access centre of Hong Kong Polytechnic University provides systematic guidelines for students to fulfill the requirements of an incentive scheme, which consists of Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. The purpose is to help students develop independent language learning skills, and to identify areas of improvement. Self-access learning is increasingly accepted as a valid mode of language learning which can reflect the move towards a more learner-focused approach to language education that encourages the development of greater learner autonomy. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the Scheme, a study was conducted to collect quantitative and qualitative data from questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews respectively over a period of one semester. This paper presents the results of the finding that confirm the importance of developing an incentive scheme to develop students’ independent language learning skills. Based on the findings, some recommendations are made on what resources can be added to make the self-access centre a more comfortable and supportive English learning environment. The study also provides some insights on how students can be encouraged to both improve their English language skills, and to develop their independent learning strategies. The finding indicates that the Scheme can serve as a useful device to help students keep track of the independent learning progress, and act as an important complement to class-based teaching at the university. It also shows the reasons why the bronze awardees would join the silver award scheme which would further motivate students to enhance independent language learning skills.