The challenge of teaching grammar in Higher Education: New approaches

Grammar, the word seems almost taboo to students even after having studied French/Spanish or another foreign language at GCSE/A level. Why is that? Are we going the wrong way when trying to explain the structure and system of a language? Could rules, syntax and morphology be taught in a different manner? How can we convince students to think of Grammar as something that can help like a friend? Understanding the grammar (or system) of a language is understanding many other things (idioms/ lexis, register, cultural awareness), hence its paramount importance to learn a foreign language more quickly and more efficiently. Using new technologies such as Turningpoint Clickers and EdPuzzle as tools to create innovative where emphasis can be put on pronunciations and syntax to teach fundamental Grammar rules can be a starting point. Students of different abilities and personalities become involved, take part, learn as part of a group and compete in a light atmosphere yet they remain anonymous and as such feel comfortable to respond freely alongside their peers from the privacy of their tablet or devices. This is turn will help the lecturer to determine understanding or weaknesses and adjust the lecture based on Feedback from the entire room. Since feedback is anonymous, everyone can focus on what is said rather than who said it. Grammar is not outdated; the approach to teaching Grammar needs to adapt and evolve