Background of the Study
Text-to-speech (TTS) synthesis technology has significantly advanced in recent years, offering substantial benefits for educational applications. In the context of the Yoruba language, TTS systems have the potential to transform learning environments by providing auditory support for students with reading difficulties and language learners (Akin, 2023). Integrating TTS technology into educational settings enhances comprehension and engagement by delivering content in a natural and accessible manner. Recent innovations in deep learning and speech synthesis have improved the naturalness and intelligibility of TTS outputs (Oluwole, 2024). Furthermore, employing TTS in Yoruba supports cultural preservation by promoting the language in digital formats, facilitating broader access to educational resources. Despite these advancements, challenges such as accurate pronunciation, tonal variations, and dialectal differences continue to pose hurdles for developers. This study appraises current TTS systems for Yoruba, evaluating their effectiveness in educational contexts and identifying areas for further enhancement. It also examines the potential impact of improved TTS systems on language learning outcomes and cultural engagement (Babatunde, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Current text-to-speech synthesis systems for the Yoruba language face significant challenges that impede their effectiveness in educational applications. Key issues include difficulties in accurately replicating the tonal and prosodic features of Yoruba, leading to outputs that are sometimes unnatural or unintelligible (Akin, 2023). Variations in dialect and pronunciation further complicate the synthesis process, resulting in inconsistent auditory outputs that affect learning clarity (Oluwole, 2024). These shortcomings diminish the reliability of TTS systems in educational settings where clarity and naturalness are critical for effective instruction. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure that TTS technology can fully support language learners and contribute to the digital promotion of the Yoruba language (Babatunde, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
1. To evaluate the performance of current TTS systems in Yoruba for educational purposes.
2. To identify challenges in replicating accurate tonal and prosodic features.
3. To propose enhancements that improve the naturalness and clarity of synthesized speech.
Research Questions:
1. How effective are existing TTS systems in accurately synthesizing Yoruba language for educational applications?
2. What are the main challenges in replicating tonal variations and dialectal differences?
3. How can TTS systems be improved to enhance educational outcomes in Yoruba language learning?
Significance of the Study :
This study is significant as it provides a comprehensive evaluation of text-to-speech synthesis systems in Yoruba, highlighting their potential in educational applications. By identifying current limitations and proposing improvements, the research contributes to the development of more effective language learning tools that support diverse learners. The findings may influence future technological innovations and promote the digital presence of the Yoruba language, ultimately benefiting educators and students alike (Akin, 2023; Oluwole, 2024).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to the appraisal of text-to-speech synthesis systems for Yoruba language in educational contexts, focusing on the evaluation of system performance and proposed enhancements.
Definitions of Terms:
• Text-to-Speech Synthesis: The technology that converts written text into spoken words.
• Prosody: The patterns of rhythm, intonation, and stress in speech.
• Educational Applications: The use of technology to enhance learning and teaching processes.
Chapter One: Introduction
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