The Correlation between Self-Directed Learning (SDL) Levels and Students' Engagement (SE) Levels in English Language Learning in MTsN 02 Sidoarjo

Self-directed learning is an approach to language learning: that the learner is trying to progress independently of a language classroom. Then, in the learning process, students’ engagement is very important. In fact, not all students have high engagement in the learning process. Some previous studies found that the self-directed learning (SDL) affected students’ engagement (SE) levels. This present study focuses on knowing and finding the correlation between self-directed learning (SDL) levels and students’ engagement (SE) levels in English language learning. This study is quantitative research, specifically a correlational study. The data are gathered using two questionnaire sets to measure self-directed learning levels and students’ engagement levels. The sample of this study are students of the 7th grade of Madrasah Tsanawiyah Negeri (MTsN) 02 Sidoarjo, who have been attended in English language learning. The findings indicate that the majority of students have moderate self-directed learning of English. Furthermore, the results showed that most of the students of MTsN 02 Sidoarjo have moderate students’ engagement levels. The total score from both variables is calculated with the Pearson Product Moment Correlation, using SPSS 16.0 for Windows. The value of the Pearson coefficient is found to be (+)0.707 which indicates the positive and strong correlation between self-directed learning (SDL) levels and students’ engagement levels in English language learning. Hence, the alternative hypothesis (H1) of this study which states that there is a correlation between self-directed learning (SDL) levels and students’ engagement (SE) levels, is accepted. This correlation result indicates that the higher of the students’ self-directed learning levels, the more likely for them to have higher of their students’ engagement levels. Hence, the teacher or lecturer of English language learning needs to maintain the students’ engagement by motivating and facilitating the students in their English learning