The Effectiveness of Using Tactile Learning in Teaching Grammar at EFL classes

Abstract

Based on the previous researches into the effectiveness of using tactile learning for language teaching purposes, specifically in teaching English grammar in EFL classes. Grammar is a vital component of teaching English as a foreign language where mastery of grammar develops learners’ accuracy in both spoken and written communication. In the traditional methods, explicit grammar was paid attention, students were memorizing the grammatical structures that unbaled them to actively engage and/or failed to accommodate diverse learning preferences. Additionally, most of EFL learners face difficulty to induce grammar rules and use them meaningfully in their daily contexts. These challenges lead educators, curriculum developers, and teachers turn to more interactive strategies and learner-centered approach that enhances their active participation and deeper cognitive processing. Consequently, the focus has shifted to integrating multisensory and experiential learning methodologies such as tactile learning to promote engagement and efficacy of grammar instruction. Tactile learning is an approach that engages a learner's sense of touch to explore and understand the world around them. It is grounded in the understanding that sensory experiences are crucial to cognitive development, particularly in the early years. This learning style involves the direct handling and manipulation of objects, allowing learners to experience concepts with their hands as well as their minds. This study aims at investigating the use of tactile learning by EFL teachers in teaching grammar and learners’ attitudes towards this approach to grammar instruction. To achieve these aims, 10 teachers and 50 students are selected. The data is collected through an observation checklist and a questionnaire. The observation checklist delivered to EFL teachers who teach grammar and the questionnaire delivered to EFL students taking their perceptions towards this style of learning. The results show that teaching grammar through tactile learning is effective but teachers rarely follow it and students prefer learning grammar through tactile style and feel more engaged and motivated.