Developing an autonomous language learning framework in a blended learning environment: A Hong Kong case study

Educational technologies in language learning has undergone a shift from learner's interaction with computers to interaction with other humans via the computer, and now moves towards the blended learning where traditional classroom teaching methods and computer-mediated activities are combined. However, the effectiveness of the blended learning is still inconclusive. The present chapter examines the effectiveness of autonomous language learning programmes in a blended learning environment and presents a framework that was derived from the programme. The framework describes the roles of teacher, the learning construction, and the learning process for autonomous language learning, and suggests a number of techniques that teachers can use to formulate their teaching plans for the blended learning. Findings revealed that students had favorable attitudes towards the autonomous language learning, the blended learning, and the programme, which could not only motivate them to continue autonomous learning but also improve their English competence.