What role does learner autonomy play in ESP?

Learner autonomy is crucial in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) as it empowers learners to take charge of their language learning journey. This approach allows individuals to identify specific goals based on their particular professional or academic needs, making the learning process more relevant and effective. By promoting autonomy, learners become more engaged and motivated, as they can seek out resources, set their own learning objectives, and focus on the skills that will directly benefit their personal or career advancements.

In ESP contexts, where language proficiency is often linked to specialized fields such as business, medicine, or technology, this self-directed approach ensures that learners are not just passive recipients of knowledge, but active participants in their development. This emphasis on autonomy aligns with the principles of learner-centered education, where the individual’s goals, interests, and contexts are taken into consideration, leading to a more personalized and impactful learning experience.