Pedagogical Suitability of Data-Driven Learning in EFL Grammar Classes: A Case Study of Taiwanese Students

[[abstract]]This study of 52 undergraduates of English as a foreign language (EFL) involves an empirical assessment of the pedagogical suitability of data-driven learning (DDL) in three Taiwanese grammar classes. One class (16 students) was taught using a traditional deductive approach (TDA), and the others (one of 17 and one of 19 students) were taught using blends of DDL and TDA. The participants’ performance in grammar and their judgments of the teaching effects of DDL were both collected for analysis. Using a covariance analysis, the study results indicate no significant differences between the three classes in grammar proficiency, although paired-sample t-tests reveal significant gains for each class. However, the results of quantifying participants’ perceptions of the treatments over time show clear changes as the experiment proceeded; there was a growing preference for DDL-integrated treatments but a disinclination towards the TDA. Although it seems premature to claim DDL’s pedagogical suitability here, the overall results lend support to the legitimacy of practicing DDL in different educational areas. This is particularly notable for Taiwan’s EFL context, given that most of its grammar classrooms are still employing conventional approaches, including the Grammar Translation method, even if they are not inclined towards them. The article concludes with a discussion of DDL’s effects on future EFL grammar classes and possible avenues for further studies.[[notice]]補正完

The decline of a liberal mainstream church: issues and problems for the church in Wales (UK)

Outlines some of the main issues in declining membership facing the Anglican Church in Wales including doctrine, clergy, laity, evangelism and variety in worship. Considers the growth of charismatic churches and the success of those with stricter codes. Concludes that many look to the church for occasional offices such as birth, marriage and death but little else. Advocates an element of strictness in order that the individual can see a difference in belonging. Points to a growth in affluence bringing tolerance and respectability and a fall in the birth rate of potential adherents