Journal of Second Language Pronunciation - Volume 4, Issue 2, 2018

Abstract

This issue addresses the intersection of technology and pronunciation, discussing past, current and future uses of technology, the use of technology for researching L2 pronunciation, for training instructors, and for teaching learners. Technology is put forth as an essential and interconnected element of second language pronunciation. The topic grew out of the 8th Pronunciation in Second Language Learning and Teaching conference, held in August 2016 in Calgary, Alberta.

Abstract

This paper reports on the role of technology in state-of-the-art pronunciation research and instruction, and makes concrete suggestions for future developments. The point of departure for this contribution is that the goal of second language (L2) pronunciation research and teaching should be enhanced comprehensibility and intelligibility as opposed to native-likeness. Three main areas are covered here. We begin with a presentation of advanced uses of pronunciation technology in research with a special focus on the expertise required to carry out even small-scale investigations. Next, we discuss the nature of data in pronunciation research, pointing to ways in which future work can build on advances in corpus research and crowdsourcing. Finally, we consider how these insights pave the way for researchers and developers working to create research-informed, computer-assisted pronunciation teaching resources. We conclude with predictions for future developments.

Abstract

This article is a critical research synthesis of 32 studies that used the High Variability Phonetic Training (HVPT) technique to teach learners to better perceive and produce L2 sounds. Taken together, the studies surveyed provide compelling evidence that HVPT is a very effective pronunciation training tool, and that resulting improvement is long-lasting. The analysis of this research also helps to explain why very few teachers have heard of this empirically-driven approach to pronunciation instruction: HVPT studies are largely published in technically oriented journals; few are accessible to language teachers. A variety of obstacles to the widespread use of HVPT are discussed, and some possible solutions are provided.

Abstract

Perceivers’ attention is entrained to the rhythm of a speaker’s gestural and acoustic beats. When different rhythms (polyrhythms) occur across the visual and auditory modalities of speech simultaneously, attention may be heightened, enhancing memorability of the sequence. In this three-stage study, Stage 1 analyzed videorecordings of native English-speaking instructors, focusing on frame-by-frame analysis of time-aligned annotations from Praat and Anvil (video annotation tool) of polyrhythmic sequences. Stage 2 explored the perceivers’ perspective on the sequences’ discourse role. Stage 3 analyzed 10 international teaching assistants’ gestures, and implemented a multistep technology-assisted program to enhance verbal and nonverbal communication skills. Findings demonstrated (a) a dynamic temporal gesture-speech relationship involving perturbations of beat intervals surrounding pitch-accented vowels, (b) the sequences’ important role as highlighters of information, and (c) improvement of ITA confidence, teaching effectiveness, and ability to communicate important points. Findings support the joint production of gesture and prosodically prominent features.

Abstract

Second language pronunciation is undergoing dramatic changes in research visibility, in the intelligibility-centered goals that drive the field, and in the ways that technology is being deployed to address new needs. This plenary delineates problems that face the field as it has grown. I suggest the reasons that technology must be a critical part of the future of L2 pronunciation and the ways in which technology use can help to address problems facing future growth. These reasons include providing the support teachers need, individualizing instruction, providing ways to ensure that intelligibility-based instruction adheres to effective goals, combining information in unusual and innovative ways, taking advantage of multi-modality in instruction and delivering varied types of feedback, and researching pronunciation learning and teaching processes.

This article reviews Beyond repeat after me: Teaching pronunciation to English learners9781942799467$47.95$38.36

This article reviews Assessment in second language pronunciation

This article reviews The Routledge handbook of contemporary English pronunciation