Empowerment of the Learner - Changes and Challenges

The empowerment of the learner to cope with changes and challenges brought about by MetaCapitalism is discussed in two classroom research projects. The University of Hanover project deals with subjective theories of teachers and learners on portfolio (self-) assessment at the tertiary level of language learning, which should be seen against the background of the European Language Portfolio. The overall evaluation is positive and recommends the portfolio as a tool to bridge learning, teaching and assessment. The University of Wollongong project (Australia) reveals culture-specific aspects and beliefs on language learning and teaching, which are determined by multiculturalism and challenged by multiliteracies, including electronic literacy to be developed by staff and students.