Exploring the Potential of a Pronunciation Guide App to Support Non-Native Speaking Students in Higher Education

Non-native speaking (NNS) students form an important part of the student population in the UK and many other countries' higher education sectors. They face numerous additional challenges compared with their native speaking counterparts. Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) tools, including computer-assisted pronunciation training (CAPT) to support language skill development among these students could be an important way to offer a more equitable university experience. This study evaluates the potential of a mobile pronunciation guide app for this purpose, based on a survey that captured perceptions of 96 non-native English speaking students at a UK university. The results indicate demand and promise for such a tool to support NNS students and thus provide greater equality of education experience.