A great deal has been written in recent years on the theoretical
aspects of autonomous language learning. There have also been various
research studies and text books written on closely related topics
such as language awareness and language learning strategies. However,
relatively few accounts have appeared describing the implementation
of larger scale autonomous language learning projects or the
implications such projects have had for teachers and learners. This paper
describes an experiment which is now in its fifth year at the Language
Centre of the University of Helsinki, Finland. Well over one thousand
university students have completed autonomous language learning
modules (ALMS) as part of their normal degree programme, and a
large body of data has been collected on the process.
We will here describe the context and organisation of the ALMS
modules and, in particular, the nature and function of counselling, which
we see as an essential part of the support system provided for learners
on their road to autonomy. We will then go on to analyse some of the
attitudinal changes experienced and freely expressed by learners as a
direct result of their participation in the programme
