What Does It Mean to Learn Autonomously?
Is learner autonomy just about studying alone, or is it something much deeper, more collaborative and more critical? How do we help students become truly autonomous learners in today鈥檚 digital world? These questions are at the heart of the latest episode of the Arqus Knowledge Pills podcast featuring Professor Marco Cappellini, specialist in Language Sciences at the University of Lyon 1 and co-editor of Learner Autonomy and Web 2.0.
Drawing on years of research in language education, virtual exchanges and teacher training, Professor Cappellini explores how our understanding of autonomy has evolved from individual self-regulation to a more social and reflective process supported by peer interaction and digital tools. He introduces the idea of social autonomy, where learning is shaped not in isolation, but through meaningful collaboration and dialogue, especially in online environments.
The conversation also touches on the role of teachers in fostering learner autonomy: not as distant facilitators, but as active mediators who scaffold learning, guide reflection, and help students navigate complex digital learning spaces.
How can we support all learners, including those with less access to resources or digital confidence, in becoming autonomous? What kinds of environments and policies are needed to make autonomy an honest and equitable goal?
Don鈥檛 miss Episode #42 of Arqus Knowledge Pills, a rich and timely conversation on the future of language education, learner agency and the evolving role of teachers in the digital age. You can listen to the episode .