Promoting Learner Autonomy in EAP Courses
for Arab Students

Filomachi Spathopoulou

(American University of the Middle East, Kuwait)

Abstract: Learner autonomy has been a matter of interest among educators in a variety of teaching contexts; however, providing autonomy in the context of EAP can be rather daunting especially when it involves accommodating cultural particularities. This article will look into the challenge of promoting learner autonomy on EAP courses for Arab students. It will analyze learning habits, preconceived learner and instructor roles, as well as cultural and societal limitations. It will also suggest the use of authentic/real life projects and explain how they can help ensure learner autonomy while at the same time turning cultural limitations into useful learning and teaching tools. The article will also focus on motivational patterns and will highlight their correlation with learner confidence and ownership of learning. The article will include a brief review of the existing literature but will mainly focus on the practical aspects and will discuss real problems.