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A Multidimensional Scaling Study of Native and Non-Native Listeners' Perception of Second Language Speech
Jennifer A Foote1, Pavel Trofimovich2
1University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada jfoote@ualberta.ca.
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|May 12, 2016
Summary
Second language learners struggle to perceive speech differences, as both native and non-native listeners focus on fluency and pronunciation. This highlights challenges in second language acquisition and speech training.
Area of Science:
- Linguistics
- Second Language Acquisition
- Phonetics
Background:
- Second language (L2) speech learning requires noticing phonetic differences between L1 and L2 output.
- L2 learners often interact with other L2 speakers, influencing their perception of L2 speech.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the perceptual dimensions underlying non-native and native English speakers' judgments of L2 speech.
- To compare how L1 and L2 listeners perceive similarities and differences in second language speech.
Main Methods:
- 15 non-native and 10 native English speakers rated audio recordings for dissimilarity.
- Recordings were from controlled reading and interview tasks.
- PROXSCAL multidimensional scaling analysis was used.
Main Results:
- Listener judgments were primarily based on fluency and pronunciation.
- There was low agreement among listeners regarding perceptual dimensions.
- Perception of L2 speech differs between native and non-native speakers.
Conclusions:
- Fluency and pronunciation are key factors in L2 speech perception.
- Limited listener agreement suggests complex and varied perceptual strategies.
- Findings inform understanding of L2 speech learning difficulties and language training.
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