Research into pronunciation learning strategies of pre-service English teachers

Pronunciation, as being one of the core components of a language, plays key roles in language learning and language use. Many studies have already been conducted regarding pronunciation learning and its importance; yet, satisfactory attention has not been given to strategies and strategy use until recently. In line with this objective, this study aims to reveal pronunciation learning strategies of EFL learners in comparison with variables such as gender, age, grade level and years of learning English. A total of 27 pre-service EFL learners took part in the study. A strategic pronunciation learning scale was used to unearth most frequently used strategy types and strategy groups as well as effects of individual variables. Descriptive analysis was used to investigate the results. It was striking to see that there is a significant difference of pronunciation strategy use based on gender, and females use strategies more frequently. Another important factor was to see that even if there is statistically no difference, length of time for learning English can have a positive effect on pronunciation learning strategies.287 

___

  • Akyol, T. (2013). A study on identifying pronunciation learning strategies of Turkish EFL learners. Procedia Social and Behavioral Sciences, 70, 1456–1462. doi: 10.1016/j.sbspro.2013.01.211
  • Derwing, T. M., Munro, M. J., & Wiebe, G. (1998). Evidence in favor of a broad framework for pronunciation instruction. Language Learning, 48(3), 393–410. doi: 10.1111/0023- 8333.00047
  • Derwing, T. M., & Rossiter, M. J. (2002). ESL learners’ perceptions of their pronunciation needs and strategies. System, 30, 155–166. doi: 10.1016/S0346-251X(02)00012-X
  • Eckstein, G. T. (2007). A correlation of pronunciation learning strategies with spontaneous English pronunciation of adult ESL learners. Unpublished Master’s Thesis, Brigham Young University Department of Linguistics and English Language, Provo.
  • Hişmanoğlu, M. (2012). An investigation of pronunciation learning strategies of advanced EFL learners. Hacettepe Üniversitesi Eğitim Fakültesi Dergisi, 43, 246-257.
  • Jones, R. H. (1997). Beyond “listen and repeat”: Pronunciation teaching materials and theories of second language acquisition. System, 25(1), 103–112. doi: 10.1016/S0346-251X(96)00064-4
  • Oxford, R. (1990). Language learning strategies: What every teacher should know. New York, NY: Newbury House.
  • Pekrun, R., Goetz, T., Titz, W., & Perry, R. P. (2002). Academic emotions in students' self regulated learning and achievement: A program of qualitative and quantitative research. Educational Psychologist, 37(2), 91-105.
  • Peterson, S. S. (2000). Pronunciation learning strategies: A first look. Retrieved from the Eric database. (ED495903)
  • Vitanova, G., & Miller, A. (2002). Reflective practice in pronunciation learning. The Internet TESL Journal, 8(1).Retrieved Decemcer 1, 2015, from http://iteslj.org.