Independent Learning Research Morning, Abu Dhabi
"And now for something completely different …" Every April for the last five years, LI-SIG has organized the Tactile Tasks and Technical Tips Event in Abu Dhabi, but now that this successful combination of practical sessions and computer workshops has been adopted by several Chapters, we decided to strike out in a new direction: The Independent Learning Research Morning.
Our new formula comprised the usual SIG and Chapter 'Welcome' and, in this instance, the introduction of the new Abu Dhabi Chapter Representative, Ahmed Al-Saadawi. Next, we heard feedback about two international conferences focusing on Independent Learning. Gary Pathare shared his photographs, handouts and experiences from the Independent Learning Association Japan Conference, October, 2007, where he had the opportunity to attend the plenary given by Henri Holec, a pioneer in this field, often considered as 'the father of the autonomous learning movement'. Just off a plane, Vance Stevens gave an overview of the IATEFL Learner Autonomy SIG's Pre-Conference Event which was held just 5 days previously, and also demonstrated the interactive, virtual conference opportunities offered by the Exeter Online website: http://exteronline.britishcouncil.org.
The six presentations which followed included Dr. Mick Randall's research into group work which discussed, through the use of discourse analysis, the theory of learning through social interaction, comparing two sets of two dialogues and then applying Vygotsky's theories of MKO and ZPL as analysis tools. Gary Pathare demonstrated the concept behind the creation of the award-winning Target English exercise series. Darcy Harris' presentation involved an analysis of a reading program to ascertain the motivation behind independent reading at HCT- RKM with a view to discovering how to implement self-actualization in study. Rola Price and Dr. Ali Shedaheh both focused on student motivation - and Dr. Ali's debate with his participants continued long after the event had finished! Vance Stevens' session, entitled The Multi-literate Autonomous Learner: Teacher Attitudes and the Inculcation of Strategies for Life-long Learning, was broadcast live from HCT-ADMC which enabled people to participate from external (overseas) locations. This session is available for viewing at http://tinyurl.com/468qrp. To round up, Melanie Gobert led a discussion on Action Research with impromptu support from Dr. David Palfreyman and Dr. Ali Shedaheh.
Feedback on this new-style event was most encouraging and we are delighted that people traveled from all around the UAE to attend. We would also like to thank our host institution, HCT-ADMC, for their invaluable practical support.
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