The Perceptions and Practices of Learner Autonomy among Undergraduate English as a Foreign Language Students in Private Universities (A Case of Erbil/Iraq)

Abstract

Learner autonomy is indisputably one of the most essential concerns in higher education, as it allows students to take charge of their own learning and accomplishing the tasks provided by their lecturers outside the walls. Therefore, this study was initiated to reveal the perceptions and practices of learner autonomy among English as a foreign language undergraduate students in private universities in Erbil. The quantitative research method was utilized through a questionnaire. The research sample consists of 156 undergraduate EFL students from three private universities in Erbil. The collected data were analyzed through SPSS 25 data editor. The results have indicated that even though the students are motivated to learn English, they do not have necessary autonomy level to take responsibility over their learning. This research will shed light on the perceptions and practices of learner autonomy among English as a foreign language undergraduate students in private universities in Erbil, and will guide English language lecturers, curriculum developers, education coordinators and undergraduate foreign language students to implement autonomous learning skills in teaching and learning.