Background of the study
Formal education plays a pivotal role in shaping language proficiency, particularly the phonetic accuracy of Nigerian English among students in tertiary institutions. Educational curricula and teaching methodologies directly influence how accurately students articulate English sounds, impacting both academic performance and professional prospects (Okeke, 2023). Nigerian English, characterized by unique phonetic features resulting from indigenous language influences, may vary widely in pronunciation. Formal education systems that emphasize standardized pronunciation and provide rigorous phonetic training are essential in reducing deviations and promoting intelligibility. Recent research indicates that students exposed to intensive phonetics instruction demonstrate improved articulation, while those with minimal training exhibit persistent errors (Ibrahim, 2024). This study investigates how formal education affects phonetic accuracy by analyzing acoustic data from student speech samples and comparing performance across institutions. It considers factors such as teacher qualifications, curriculum design, and student exposure to native versus standardized English models. The findings aim to inform educators about the efficacy of current teaching practices and suggest improvements for enhanced phonetic training.
Statement of the problem
Despite significant investments in formal education, many Nigerian tertiary students struggle with phonetic inaccuracies in English. Inadequate emphasis on phonetic training in curricula has led to persistent pronunciation errors, affecting comprehension and academic performance (Chinwe, 2023). The lack of standardized phonetic instruction exacerbates these issues, limiting students’ professional communication skills. This study seeks to identify the specific effects of formal education on phonetic accuracy in Nigerian English, thereby highlighting gaps in current pedagogical practices.
Objectives of the study:
Research questions:
Research hypotheses:
Significance of the study (100 words):
This study is significant as it assesses the impact of formal education on the phonetic accuracy of Nigerian English, providing data to improve language instruction in tertiary institutions. The insights will assist educators and policymakers in refining curricula to enhance communication skills among students (Okeke, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to tertiary institutions in Nigeria, focusing on phonetic accuracy measured through acoustic and perceptual analyses.
Definitions of terms:
Background of the Study
Regulatory policy enforcement is critical for maintaining robust bank governance standards, ensuring that financi...
Background of the study
There is a general saying that “there is no smoke without fire,” this also means tha...
Background of the Study
Material Management, as practiced...
Continuous professional education (CPE) is essential in ensuring that healthc...
Background of the Study
Hydroelectric power generation is a key source of renewable energy in Nigeria, with Shiroro Dam in Niger State be...
ABSTRACT
The importance of skilled birth attendants in the reduction of maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality wor...
Background of the Study
Financial planning is an essential element in managing any business, particularly in the banking sector, where fi...
Abstract: Addressing ethical considerations in industry partnerships in vocational educatio...
Background of the Study
Phonetic articulation is a key factor in effective public speaking, especially during Nigerian cul...
Background of the Study
Neonatal asphyxia, a condition where newborns fail to breathe at birth, remains a leading cause of neonatal morta...