ERIC Number: EJ1306730
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1547-5441
EISSN: N/A
Learning Challenging L2 Sounds via Computer Training: High-Variability Perceptual Training for Children and Adults
Shum, Kathy Kar-man; Au, Terry Kit-fong; Romo, Laura F.; Jun, Sun-Ah
Language Learning and Development, v17 n4 p327-342 2021
Do learners of a second language (L2) need frequent contact with native speakers of that language in order to master its phonology? What if they hear audio recordings of native speakers and receive immediate corrective feedback about their perception? We used a randomized controlled experiment with 135 Chinese speakers (with English as their L2) to examine whether a high-variability perceptual training (HVPT) paradigm might enhance the perception of challenging contrasts between English voiced and voiceless stop consonants. Learners in all the age groups tested -- middle childhood, early adolescence, and young adulthood -- showed enhanced perception of English stop consonants after 20 five-minute training sessions conducted across 4 to 6 weeks, based on audio-recorded input coupled with corrective feedback. The training benefits were maintained at the one-month follow-up. Our results suggest that HVPT using audio-recordings of native speakers can be an affordable and useful language enrichment to supplement live interaction with native speakers, for L2 learners of a wide age range.
Descriptors: Computer Assisted Instruction, Teaching Methods, Comparative Analysis, Error Correction, Feedback (Response), Phonology, Audio Equipment, Native Speakers, Auditory Perception, Chinese, Second Language Learning, Second Language Instruction, English (Second Language), Linguistic Input, Phonemes, Age Differences, Children, Early Adolescents, Young Adults, Educational Benefits, Language Enrichment, Kindergarten, Grade 1, Elementary School Students, Foreign Countries
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education; Elementary Education; Kindergarten; Primary Education; Grade 1
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Hong Kong
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A