English vowel pronunciation training in Cantonese-speakers learning English as a second language : a comparison between full-set focused training and full-set non-focused training

Abstract

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of full-set non-focused perceptual training and full-set focused perceptual training on English vowel perception in Cantonese speakers; and to investigate whether the perceptual training effects can be generalized to production. Previous research has shown that full-set non-focused training can improve second language vowel perception. Yet, none have investigated the effectiveness of trainings focusing on easily-confusable vowel pairs based on the assimilation patterns in the first language. Adult Cantonese speakers received 10 sessions of either focused or non-focused training. Their perception and production performance were assessed before, midway through and after trainings. Results revealed effectiveness and similar patterns in vowel perception in both training programs, with non-focused training being more effective. Yet, focused training was found to be more efficient in terms of total training duration. This study confirmed the effectiveness of non-focused training on vowel perception in the Cantonese population. It also proposed the possibility of incorporating focused training in combination with other training protocols.