Are digital learning paths sufficient for learning/practising English grammar? Views of secondary school pupils

Abstract

[EN] This study aims to investigate 80 grade 6–10 secondary school English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners’ opinions in Germany about the extent to which they consider Digital Learning Paths (DLPs) sufficient for acquiring or refreshing their English grammar knowledge. The learners were given one to two grammar-focused DLPs, depending on their grade and language level, to complete during their English classes. Upon completion, learners participated in an online survey. Research data were collected in October 2022 using an online survey. Interestingly, results from 80 learners showed that for half of the respondents, the DLPs were sufficient to learn or practise English grammar, but the second half of the respondents indicated that they would prefer DLPs to be integrated into grammar lessons at school. This is because these learners prefer to have additional explanations from the teacher. This case study shows that it can help promote DLPs as an alternative teaching method and encourage EFL teachers to deliver their English grammar lessons in a more engaging and sustainable format.