Factors Influencing Perception Perception

15 be directly experienced. It means that independent learning is actually the unconscious process which happens in the process of learning. Meyer, Haywood, Sachdev and Faraday 2008 state that: There are a number of different terms used to describe independent learning; the most common being is self-regulated learning. All these different terms describe very similar themes and processes, including pupils having an understanding of their learning; being motivated to take responsibility for their learning; and working with teachers to structure their learning environment p. 2. Many terms are used to describe independent learning such as autonomous learning, independent study, self-directed learning, student-initiated learning, project orientation, discovery and inquiry, teaching for thinking, learning to learn, self- instruction and lifelong learning Kesten, 1987, p. 9. All of them describe similar meaning about students’ independent learning. The process of students’ independent learning in how they understand the lesson, how they become more motivated and responsible, and how they work with their environment are connected. However, teaching and learning process can influence students’ independent learning. Aspin and Chapman 2006 as cited in Marshall 2007 perceive that “independent learning is based on activities which enable learners to take responsibility for their learning, and is essential for lifelong motivation and growth ” p. 42. It means, learning activity which the teacher gives as a strategy for students can determine students’ independent learning. The students can be more motivated and responsible with their learning process as well as in doing their project. As the 16 project or homework given by the teacher is also a strategy to foster students ’ independent learning. Although independent learning is an individual matter, it does not merely involve the students’ activity in working individually Meyer, et al., 2008. The process of having independent learning can be influenced by the students’ environment. The learning process and people around such as teachers and friends can help the students decide anything they need for their learning. When students can decide what they need for their learning process, they become more aware of their independent learning. As stated by Kesten 1987, “Independent learning is that learning in which the learner, in conjunction with relevant others, can make the decisions necessary to meet the learner’s own learning needs” p. 5. Moreover, Knowles 1975 presents the theory of self-directed learning which usually takes place in association with various kinds of helpers, such as teachers, tutors, mentors, resource people and peers as cited in O’Doherty, 2006. In this research, independent learning is seen as a goal to be achieved by the students through doing group presentation project. In doing this project, the students learn not only individually but also together with their friends and interact with their lecturers in class. The people around the students like their friends and lecturers in class can encourage the students to become more responsible and independent for their learning process.