Enhancing Autonomy in Language Education: A Case-Based Approach to Teacher and Learner Development

by Manuel Jiménez Raya, Flavia Vieira

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.

173 pages, Hardcover

First published March 30, 2015

About the author

Manuel Jiménez Raya is Full Professor and Head of the English and German Department at the University of Granada, Spain. His main research interests are pedagogy for autonomy, experiential learning, modern language teacher education, and case pedagogy. He has published numerous articles and co-authored several books on FLT methodology and teacher education.