Promoting Learner Autonomy Through Portfolio

Abstract

This paper is intended to remind language educators to enhance student's learning and develop learner autonomy through portfolio as a learning tool. It aims to show the progress done in the field of autonomy and the portfolio in language learning. Since these two terms are not new, this paper aims at discussing the concept of autonomy and its different interpretations, and benefits of the use of portfolio during the process of raising autonomy in learning a foreign language The paper begins with definitions and brief theoretical information about learner autonomy. Then, it introduces the English Language Portfolio and portfolio assessment, and benefits of it considering the relationship between autonomy and portfolio in language learning classrooms. The paper implies that the use of portfolio, as a learning tool, is vital to promote learner autonomy in the language learning. Finally, it presents three examples of the portfolio in different institutions; along with a conclusion. I hope this paper will be useful to language teachers who wish to promote learner autonomy through portfolios and reconsider their foreign language curriculum in their own contexts.