Autonomous learning, also called student–centred learning or flexible learning (Taylor, 2000) relates to the change in focus in the classroom from the teacher to the student (or from the teaching to the learning). This is based on a constructivist theory of learning (see How Students Learn 4) whereby each individual students constructs their own understanding based on their prior knowledge and current learning experiences (Kember, 1997).
The concept of autonomous learning and what it means for both learners and lecturers is developed in an article by Geraldine O’Neill and Tim McMahon and can be accessed by clicking here.