Sound Spellings : Online Pronunciation Enhancement in a Computer Assisted Language Learning Environment

This study examines the impact of a methodology for enhancing English as a second language pronunciation among Japanese learners through web-based listening and speaking exercises. Students in classes using an emergent approach for countering Katakana-English, characteristic Japanese sound patterns mistakenly adopted during English pronunciation, were compared to others doing traditional pronunciation training. The methodology used adapted a simplified reading system often utilized by broad-casters, dubbed here Sound Spellings, to provide new patterns of pronunciation that may assist in breaking down Katakana-based pronunciation tendencies. Independent raters compared pronunciation of written key terms from the textbook being used among a sample group, including students undergoing the Sound Spellings treatment and others instructed with traditional exercises. Results show significant improvement in pronunciation among students undergoing the Sound Spelling treatment, as compared to moderate to weak improvement among the control group. The findings suggest more development of similar approaches may help reduce Katakana-based soundings and offer significant improvement for Japanese learners of English