Pronunciation Teaching where Institutional Support is Strong

Pronunciation teaching is often neglected in foreign and second language settings, but in some contexts the importance of pronunciation teaching has enjoyed strong, sustained support. Iowa State University has a history of administrative support for pronunciation teaching, including senior faculty hires and dedicated pronunciation classes at a variety of levels. However, it is not clear whether this administrative support translates into strong and even support for the actual pronunciation teaching that happens in classes. In fact, administrative decision-making seems to emphasize the materials, including in-house packets, textbooks, and lab materials; but less attention has been given to choosing or training qualified and experienced pronunciation teachers.

Language classes at Iowa State University include both second language English classes for intermediate to advanced learners, and foreign language classes including Spanish, Chinese and Arabic for beginning and intermediate learners. Pronunciation training is included in several of these classes. A survey was given to ISU language teachers about how they teach pronunciation in their classes, asking them about their beliefs and practices regarding the teaching of pronunciation. They were also asked whether they feel they have been given enough training for being effective pronunciation teachers, what such training was like, and what kind of training they think would be useful. Results of this survey will be shared.