Self-Directed Learning Strategy of my English Speaking Journey: A Narrative Inquiry

Abstract

This study aims to shed light on the transformative experience of learning English independently, along with the valuable insights and personal growth that came with it. The researcher recounts his personal journey of learning English. His path to speaking English ability was ignited by a newfound curiosity inspired by Hollywood movies and gradually developed into a structured learning process. This process included self-iniated actions like volunteering to speak publicly in English and participating in weekly speaking activities. The research follows a qualitative design using a narrative inquiry approach to share the researcher’s English learning experience. The data of this study was his personal experiences that he wrote into narratives in diary. This research offers insights into the transformative process of learning English independently and underscores the significance of self-directed learning, motivation, persistence, and reflection in language acquisition. Through initiative, goal setting, creativity, motivation, persistence, and reflection, the researcher overcame challenges and achieved substantial improvement in English language learning. This journey not only enhanced his language abilities but also built resilience and a deeper understanding of effective learning methods applicable beyond language learning. These findings contribute to the understanding of effective learning strategies that can be utilized in various contexts.

Keywords: Self-directed Learning; English Speaking; Narrative Inquiry