The use of writing portfolio in preparatory writing classes to foster learner autonomy

In this study, portfolio implementation and assessment was used in one preparatory writing class in the English Language Teaching Department. We had two aims in mind: to improve learners? achievement in writing skills by the implementation of writing portfolio and to find out whether or not portfolio implementation would lead to learner autonomy. There were 30 participants who were preparatory class students at Çukurova University English Language Teaching Department in the academic year of 2006-2007. We had writing portfolios, cover letters, reflection sheets, interviews and an autonomy level questionnaire as data collection tools. The theory behind our study was constructivism.The results of the data analysis showed that the use of writing portfolio may improve learners? achievements in writing skills and foster learner autonomy in preparatory writing classes.Keywords: Writing Portfolios, Learner Autonomy, Constructivism