11027

11027

General Session - Conference Presentation Only (no formal paper)

Grammar Podcast for EFL College Students
Reima Al-Jarf, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, reemasado@msn.com

Podcasts are audio files that are automatically delivered to the student’s computer, smart phone, iPod or MP3 player. They can be automatically updated. Students typically subscribe to podcasts using "podcatcher" software such as iTunes. The present study gives examples of English grammar podcasts that can be integrated in in-class grammar instruction for EFL college stduents. It shows how grammar podcasts can be downloaded and used and which grammatical structures and topics are covered by those podcasts. Grammar podcasts contain 2-5 minute long audio explanations of a particular grammatical point or structure. They include a lesson script, exercises, quizzes with an answer key, and/or an English grammar help where answers are given to students’ questions about problematic grammatical points. Students can download the podcasts, print the script, do the exercises and score their answers themselves. Elementary, intermediate and advanced level grammar podcasts can be downloaded depending on the students’ needs and proficiency level. Unlike face-to-face classroom lectures, students can listen to grammar podcasts anywhere, anytime and as many times as they need. Classroom discussions on a grammar podcast can be performed in pairs, small groups or even whole class. End-of-semester grammar tests can be given to find out improvements in the students grammatical knowledge/achievement as a result of integrating grammar podcasts in EFL college courses. Effects of using grammar podcasts on students’ achievement and mastery level will be reported.

All Audiences podcasts grammar EFL college students.