Keywords
Pronunciation Teaching Strategies
Second Language Teaching
How to Cite
Accepted 2024-11-05
Published 2025-01-04
Abstract
Purpose: The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of various strategies used by English teachers in Harbin, China, to improve ESL students' English pronunciation. It highlights the importance of effective pronunciation skills for ESL students' overall language proficiency, especially in listening, and seeks to identify how teachers address challenges in teaching oral language skills.
Approach/Methodology/Design: A qualitative research design was employed, using interviews with a sample of four teachers selected through purposive sampling. The data collected were analyzed using thematic analysis to explore both the challenges faced by students in pronunciation and the strategies teachers use to overcome these issues.
Findings: The study identified several challenges that students face, including phonetic difficulties, limited opportunities for speaking practice, and anxiety or shame associated with making mistakes. Teachers also encountered barriers, such as curriculum limitations, inadequate resources, and lack of institutional support. Key strategies identified as effective included role-playing, audio-visual aids, and adaptable teaching methods tailored to specific classroom needs.
Practical Implications: The study suggests that to improve pronunciation, teachers should foster a supportive language environment, focus on motivational techniques, incorporate multimedia resources, and employ learner-centered approaches. It calls for more resources and institutional backing to support these strategies, emphasizing that an engaged and flexible teaching approach is crucial for effective pronunciation instruction.
Originality/value: This research contributes to the field by underlining the need for a holistic approach to pronunciation teaching that adapts to the unique needs of ESL students in a non-English-speaking context. It highlights the importance of teacher training and diverse teaching methods to improve pronunciation outcomes, offering insights into how a supportive and resource-rich environment can enhance language learning effectiveness.
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