Enhancing learners’ self-directed use of technology for language learning: the effectiveness of an online training platform

Abstract

Enhancing self-directed use of technology for language learning is essential for maximizing the potential of technology for language learning. Understanding how to construct learner training to promote this critical competency is of great significance. This study examined the effectiveness of an online training platform aimed at enhancing the willingness and necessary knowledge and skill set of learners to engage in self-directed use of technology for language learning through equipping them with the pedagogical rationales for self-directed technology use for learning, the strategic base for matching technology selection with learning goals and processes, and the tactics for using technological resources and tools effectively for language learning. A group of undergraduate students participated in the 12-week training. Analyses of students’ survey responses prior to and after the training indicated that the training program was effective in inducing a greater frequency of self-directed use of technology for language learning and in promoting a greater willingness and stronger knowledge and skill base in support of such learning behaviors.

Keywords:

• self-directed technology use
• learner training

Acknowledgements

Thanks are expressed to the participating students and the anonymous reviewers of the journal Computer Assisted Language Learning.

Additional information

Funding

This article is based on a project funded by the Research Grants Council of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR [grant number GRF7461/10H].

Notes on contributors

Chun Lai

Chun Lai is an assistant professor at the Faculty of Education, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong. Her interests include self-directed language learning beyond the classroom, technology enhanced language learning, and technology integration. Her most recent projects entail understanding the nature of self-directed language learning with technology beyond the classroom and developing learner training models to support self-directed use of technology for foreign language learning.

Mark Shum

Mark Shum is an associate professor at the Faculty of Education, the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong. His interests include second language reading and writing pedagogies and systemic functional linguistics and its application to language education.

Yan Tian

Yan Tian is a professor at the Institute of Foreign Languages at Shanghai Jiaotong University, China. Her interests include computer-assisted language learning, online language teaching and learning, and intelligent online autonomous language learning.