Investigating the impact of computer-assisted pronunciation teaching (CAPT) on improving intermediate EFL learners’ pronunciation ability

Abstract

Computer-assisted pronunciation teaching (CAPT) software has been developed to improve learners’ pronunciation. CAPT software helps learners to study independently, selecting what function to use and how often they utilize it. CAPT systems are regarded as a useful tool for pronunciation training for learners, specifically those who feel uncomfortable having their pronunciation corrected in front of other learners. This study investigated the effects of computer-assisted pronunciation teaching (CAPT) on Iranian intermediate EFL learners’ pronunciation ability. The researchers used Accent Master Software (AMS) for this objective. A total number of seventy EFL learners were selected based on their performance on Quick Placement Test (QPT). Then, they were randomly divided into two groups (one experimental and one control group). Pre-test of pronunciation was administered to both groups at the beginning of the study to examine their pronunciation before introducing the treatment. Then, CAPT (here AMS) was introduced to the experimental group and the control group received the traditional way of teaching pronunciation. Afterward, both groups attended the post-test. The data were analyzed through running the Independent and Paired Samples T-test methods. Based on the statistical analyses, it was concluded that CAPT had a statistically significant effect on Iranian intermediate EFL learners’ pronunciation. The results also indicated that there was a statistically significant difference in the post-test scores between the control and the experimental groups. That is, the experimental group outperformed the control group in the post-test of pronunciation and the progress within the group for the experimental group was higher than that of the control group.