PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS INFLUENCING PASHTO SPEAKING ESL STUDENTS’ PRONUNCIATION OF ENGLISH VOWELS

Abstract

It is challenging to have proficiency in pronouncing foreign language well. Correct pronunciation has great impact on listening and speaking. Psychological factors play role in learning and execution of language. This study used mixed method research design. For the purpose of data collection, it employs multiple tools i.e. behavioral observation, semi structured interviews and experiments. Six students were interviewed to have detailed analysis of their experience and the underlying psychological factors. Experimental investigation using PRAAT analyzed the vowel sounds. A list of 20 words containing vowel sounds was provided to 20 students and their pronunciation of the target words were recorded. It was concluded that some of the Monophthongs and especially diphthongs were very problematic for students. Highly problematic Monophthongs were /u/, /ɒ/, /ʊ/ while less problematic Monophthongs were /i:/, /ə/, /æ/, /ɑ:/. On the other side, highly problematic Diphthongs were /aɪ/, /ɔɪ/, /ʊə/, /eə/, /aʊ/ while less problematic Diphthongs were /eɪ/, /ɪə/, /əʊ/. Similarly, psychological factors which affect correct pronunciation were identified. Overuse of mother language, traditional teaching method, lack of motivation, unhealthy environment, anxiety, fear of negative evaluation and lack of confidence are some of the important obstacles making learning correct pronunciation hard. This study left a research gap for future researchers to investigate vowel sounds at other positions of words and remedies to have psychologically healthy environment.