DEVELOPING LEARNER AUTONOMY IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING: A KEY TO IMPROVING EDUCATIONAL QUALITY IN UZBEKISTAN

Аннотация

The ongoing modernization of Uzbekistan's education system has increased the need for innovative teaching approaches that encourage students to become active and independent learners. In English Language Teaching (ELT), learner autonomy has emerged as one of the key principles of effective language education. It refers to learners' ability to take responsibility for their own learning by setting goals, selecting appropriate learning strategies, monitoring their progress, and evaluating their achievements.

Although significant reforms have been introduced to improve English language education in Uzbekistan, many learners still depend heavily on teachers during the learning process. Such dependence may limit students' confidence, motivation, and ability to continue learning outside the classroom. Therefore, developing learner autonomy should become one of the major objectives of English language instruction.

Teachers can promote learner autonomy through practical classroom strategies such as self-assessment, peer assessment, project-based learning, reflective journals, collaborative activities, and the effective use of digital learning resources. These strategies encourage students to participate actively in lessons, think critically, solve problems independently, and develop lifelong learning habits. At the same time, the teacher's role changes from being the main source of knowledge to becoming a facilitator who guides and supports learners throughout the learning process.

The promotion of learner autonomy is closely connected with the goals of current educational reforms in Uzbekistan, which emphasize competency-based education, student-centered instruction, and the development of twenty-first-century skills. Integrating autonomous learning practices into English language classrooms can improve both teaching quality and students' communicative competence.

Learner autonomy is one of the essential components of modern English language education. Encouraging students to become independent learners can improve language proficiency, increase learning motivation, and develop lifelong learning skills. Therefore, English teachers in Uzbekistan should integrate learner autonomy into everyday classroom practice to support national educational reforms and prepare learners for future academic and professional success.