Understanding learners self-study booklet

This self-study guide for teachers and teacher educators looks at understanding learners

It forms part of a series of self-study booklets, in which teachers will find useful theory and practice for teaching English effectively, including short case studies and professional development activities to do individually and with colleagues.

Featuring a range of engaging and accessible activities, the booklets help teachers to:

  • identify areas for development
  • find a variety of ways to improve their teaching knowledge 
  • develop the skills they need in and out of the classroom.

Teacher educators can make use of these materials to work with developing teachers to help assess and address their learning needs.

Each booklet covers one of the professional practices in the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Framework for teachers and is based on research into what effective professional development involves. 

In this booklet, you will look at:

  • Understanding learner characteristics such as attainment, age, motivation to learn and autonomy.
  • Conducting needs analyses and applying the results
  • Applying an understanding of the impact of the learning environment on your learners

The publications are free to download in pdf format.

Research and insight

Browse fascinating case studies, research papers, publications and books by researchers and ELT experts from around the world.

See our publications, research and insight