FOSTERING LEARNER AUTONOMY THROUGH ICT IN A MEXICAN UNIVERSITY CONTEXT
Keywords:
Autonomy, Learning strategies, University studentsAbstract
ABSTRACT
Learner autonomy is recognized as a key competence in higher education, particularly in language learning, where the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) offers both opportunities and challenges. This study aimed to analyze the autonomous learning strategies employed by Mexican university students of English as a foreign language. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, correlational design was applied with a sample of 33 students from the Universidad de Sonora, Campus Navojoa. Data were collected through an adapted version of the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL; Oxford, 1990), including six dimensions and 43 items. Results indicated a medium level of strategy use (M = 3.04), with affective strategies being the most frequently employed (M = 3.41) and memory strategies the least (M = 2.74). Correlation analysis showed strong associations among cognitive, metacognitive, affective, and social strategies, while memory strategies appeared more independent. The findings suggest that students rely mainly on emotional and social resources to sustain autonomy, highlighting the need for pedagogical interventions that foster affective regulation, peer collaboration, and the strengthening of metacognitive skills.
KEYWORDS
Autonomy, English, Learning strategies, University students, ICT
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