Improving Pronunciation via Accent Reduction and Text-to- Speech Software

This study aimed to find out whether integrating accent reduction and text-to-speech software in elementary language classes would result in improvements in students’ pronunciation. The study made use of a quasi-experimental research design since it did not include the use of random assignment. Three classes at a private language institution in Turkey participated in the study. One class (control group) followed traditional instruction (using a CD player and a pronunciation text-bookTree or Three?), another group (experimental group 1) followed traditional instruction which integrated the use of accent reduction software (Pronunciation Power I) and the final group (experimental group 2) followed traditional instruction which integrated the use of accent reduction and text-to-speech software (Text Aloud MP3 with NeoSpeech voicesPaul and Kate). The results of the study showed that the students following instruction integrating the use of accent reduction and text-to-speech software performed better in the post-tests.