Enhancing Autonomy in Language Education

Manuel Jiménez Raya, University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Flávia Vieira, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.

The book explores the idea that pedagogy for autonomy requires the integration of teacher and learner development and can be enhanced through a case-based approach in teacher education.

A case-based approach values experiential professional learning and expands professional competences necessary to promote autonomy in schools: developing a critical view of (language) education; managing local constraints so as to open up spaces for manoeuvre; centring teaching on learning; interacting with others in the professional community.

Two strategies to implement the approach are presented and illustrated. The first one involves teachers in designing, implementing and evaluating experiences of pedagogy for autonomy, which are the basis for writing professional narratives and building a case portfolio. The second draws on teachers' pedagogical experience as the basis for the construction of case materials where experiential elements are combined with theoretical input and reflective tasks, so that the teachers who use those materials can reflect about and explore their own practice.

Studies in Second and Foreign Language Education presents research on critical theoretical issues and empirical research which shape second and foreign language education. It provides a platform for the discussion of innovative and progressive curricular and teaching practice. The series includes work on:

• Theories and applications of innovative approaches to language acquisition/education
• Instructional methodologies
• Curriculum development
• Teacher education
• Language planning and evaluation
• Autonomous learning contexts
• Teaching/learning of less commonly taught languages

SSFLE will be of interest to second and foreign language researchers and teachers, curriculum and materials developers, and language policy planners.