Learner Autonomy and Vocabulary Development for Saudi University Female EFL Learners: Students’ Perspectives

Abstract

This qualitative case study examined how female English language learners in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) realize learner autonomy, especially in the context of the learner’s meaning development via purposeful vocabulary acquisition. EFL students’ perceptions and applications of autonomous learning strategies for the purpose of English vocabulary development were investigated, as well as their adapted methods for learning English. Data collection included face-to-face semistructured interviews of 8 students from two different classrooms, classroom observations, participants’ reflections on specific English coursework, and English learning autobiographies. The findings revealed the students’ appreciation of the English language and showed how various autonomous learning methods developed their sense of self-possession.