Effects of Practice Variability on Second-Language Speech Production Training.

BACKGROUND

Mastering the phonetics of a second language (L2) involves a component of speech-motor skill, and it has been suggested that L2 learners aiming to achieve a more native-like pronunciation could benefit from practice structured in accordance with the principles of motor learning.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

This study investigated the influence one such principle, high versus low variability in practice, has on speech-motor learning for Korean adults seeking to acquire native-like production of English rhotics. Practice incorporated a commercially available intraoral placement device ("R Buddy," Speech Buddies Inc.). In a single-subject across-behaviors design, 8 participants were pseudorandomly assigned to practice rhotic targets in a low-variability (single word) or high-variability (multiple words) practice condition.

RESULTS

The hypothesized advantage for high-variability over low-variability practice was observed in the short-term time frame. However, long-term learning was limited in nature for both conditions.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that future research should incorporate high-variability practice while identifying additional manipulations to maximize the magnitude of long-term generalization learning.