Fostering Learner Wellbeing through Autonomy: The Role of Learning Communities more

Sun, Oct 22, 10:00-10:55 Asia/Tokyo

In this dialogic plenary, we will discuss recent challenges learners face at the tertiary level, particularly the physical and psychological impacts on their wellbeing. With a central focus on learner autonomy, we will share the critical elements for promoting the wellbeing of language learners to maintain a stable sense of community and belonging. Our conversation will start with how reflective dialogues with learners at a self-access center facilitate group advising that fosters learner autonomy. These students are empowered to take control of their learning experiences and explore opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through the feeling of being listened to, the learners consider their emotions and view their aspirations and goals more clearly, supporting a sense of wellbeing in the learning community they are part of. The reflective practice can be adapted to various classrooms and learning spaces. Then we will explore how educators can actively contribute to fostering the holistic wellbeing of students in multiple contexts. By prioritizing our learners’ psychological and physical health, as teachers, we can all equip students with the necessary tools and support to thrive personally and professionally and prepare them for a more prosperous future. An essential aspect of our plenary will be encouraging the audience to participate actively in the dialogues from a learner’s perspective. By considering students’ insights and experiences, we can achieve a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in promoting learner wellbeing. We hope the dialogic collaboration of the participants will generate practical strategies and recommendations that can be implemented in diverse educational institutions to support our students’ wellbeing.