Web-based pronunciation training and learning consonant clusters among EFL learners.

Area of Science:

• Applied Linguistics
• Educational Technology
• Second Language Acquisition

Background:

• Arab learners of English frequently encounter difficulties with English consonant cluster pronunciation.
• Technology-driven interventions can potentially improve the acquisition of English pronunciation.
• Web-based tools offer accessible and flexible resources for language learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of web-based pronunciation training on the articulation of English consonant clusters.
• To compare the pronunciation improvements of learners using a web-based resource versus traditional methods.

Main Methods:

• An experimental design was employed with 58 Saudi English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners.
• Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (using YouGlish for consonant cluster practice) and a control group (traditional pronunciation instruction).
• The study assessed improvements in the production of words containing consonant clusters.

Main Results:

• The experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in pronouncing consonant clusters compared to the control group.
• The use of YouGlish as a web-based pronunciation training tool was directly linked to enhanced articulation skills.
• Web-based training proved more effective than traditional methods for this specific pronunciation challenge.

Conclusions:

• Web-based pronunciation training is a highly effective method for improving English consonant cluster pronunciation in EFL learners.
• Technology integration in language education can provide valuable tools for addressing specific pronunciation difficulties.
• This study supports the broader application of digital resources in second language pronunciation instruction.