LEARNER TRAINING PROGRAM SEBAGAI UPAYA PENGEMBANGAN PEMBELAJARAN BAHASA INGGRIS DI UP2B UNIVERSITAS RIAU

Abstract

The need for language learner training arises from several circumstances, learner differences, added value for teaching methodo-logies, practicality, educational aims, and learning-how-to-learn foreign languages. It could be one valuable strategy to deal with problems currentlybeing faced by the students at the Unit Pelayanan dan Pengembangan Bahasa(UP2B) Univeristas Riau. The most urgent problem is that the students cannotregularly attend their English classes at the center because of the timetableclashes occurring at their faculties and the institute. To help overcome thispractical problem, this paper argues for the introduction of a language learnertraining program. the design of the proposed language learner training programbegins from external direction (an integral part of language learner trainingobjectives), t semi-autonomy (partial part of the language program objectives),and ends in total autonomy (language learning activities at the self-accesscenter). The design also includes psychological and methodological preparationfor teachers ad students to avoid possible negative attitudes due to theirfamiliarity with teacher-centered classes. It is proposed that teacher training,prior to the implementation of language learner training, is also required.Teachers need to develop skills in need analysis, materials selection, andadopting a supportive facilitating role. This paper explores and makesrecommendations as to why and how language learner training could beimplemented in the tertiary context in Riau, Indonesia.