Online Learning as a Tool for Developing Learner Autonomy for Future Engineers

Current university educational context is vulnerable due to challenges caused by different force majeure, which result in dramatic shift towards online education. However, not all students are willing to deal with online edtech on a regular basis as they are under severe pressure from inability to work autonomously. It is an alarming trend especially for future engineers, as they are required to solve multi-dimensional tasks, be able to find solutions promptly and autonomously. To fill in the gap between the urge for autonomous learning and lack of willingness to study independently, the authors offer the results of the research conducted among 632 future engineers. The 2-stage survey via interviews and a questionnaire was aimed at identifying major challenges and benefits that can trigger sustained autonomous learning activity of students. The findings of this study can be useful for designing and developing online courses as a tool for enhancing student autonomy.