TITLE:
Analyzing the Effectiveness of Simulation in Promoting Learner Autonomy: Perceptions of ESP Hotel Management Students
AUTHORS:
Sartaj Fakhar Jilani, Musarat Yasmin
KEYWORDS:
Learner Autonomy, Simulation, Hotel Management, Hospitality, Task-Based Learning, Simulation-Based Teaching
JOURNAL NAME:
Psychology,
Vol.7 No.8,
July
22,
2016
ABSTRACT: Simulation-based teaching with its life-long
efficacy has led many researchers and educationists to probe deeply into the
promotion of learner autonomy in the teaching and learning nexus. This newly
emerging trend is an indication of accelerating concern in the area of global
ESP perspective which has a pivotal significance regarding experimentation with
interactive learning situations, eventually resulting in a broader
understanding of learner autonomy along with refinement of problem-solving,
decision making and critical thinking skills. The ultimate goal of the present
study was to evaluate the effectiveness of simulation in nurturing learner
autonomy. It further scrutinized the perceptions and beliefs of 40 ESP Hotel
Management students (L2 learners) enrolled in University of Gujrat (UOG),
purposively selected, whose responses regarding simulation as a dynamic
teaching tool, contributing actively in enhancing learner autonomy or not, were
eventually examined. In this perspective the researchers designed a closed-ended
questionnaire. Findings of the study revealed that simulation integrated in
innovative and interactive learning scenarios stimulates the learning and
enhances learner autonomy by increasing learner motivation, encouraging team
work, developing communication, interpersonal and project management skills
while boosting up learners’ confidence in task-based
ventures and collaborative learning along with enrichment of workplace skills
in multidimensional situations and in a tension free environment.