Exploring the students’ perceptions and language learning experiences of a self-access centre

Abstract

Self-access language learning (SALL) refers to the learning that typically takes place in a self-access centre (SAC), whether self or otherdirected. As an innovation in the foreign language teaching-learning milieu, it has been diffused and adopted all over the world. The present case study aims to investigate EFL students’ perceptions and experiences regarding this learning mode (called autonomous at this university) and the facility where it takes place (SAC). From a qualitative perspective, I gathered data through interviews, observation and analysis of students’ work reports, resulting in the two broad themes underpinning this study. The results include ten findings supported by evidence taken from the data; four are classified as “Students’ perceptions of the autonomous learning mode, and six as “Students’ experiences within the autonomous learning mode”. Finally, suggestions for a more contextualized and critical adoption of innovations in this arena are provided.