BALANCING TEACHER CONTROL AND STUDENT AUTONOMY IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING
Keywords:
Keywords: autonomy, teacher control, English Language Teaching (ELT), self-directed learning, motivation, classroom managementAbstract
The balance between teacher control and student autonomy is a crucial factor in English Language Teaching (ELT). While teacher guidance provides structure, student autonomy fosters motivation and engagement. This article explores the theoretical foundations of autonomy in language learning, the role of teacher control in shaping classroom interactions, and practical strategies for achieving a balance between the two. Drawing on recent research and pedagogical theories, the paper highlights the benefits and challenges of fostering autonomy in ELT settings. It concludes with recommendations for educators to optimize the teaching-learning process by encouraging self-directed learning while maintaining instructional coherence.
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