Background of the Study
Machine learning (ML) has emerged as a powerful tool for advancing phonetic analysis by automating the detection and classification of speech sounds. In Kano, the Hausa language exhibits a rich phonetic system characterized by tonal variations and distinctive articulatory patterns. Recent studies have applied ML algorithms to process large datasets of spoken Hausa, enabling more precise phonetic segmentation and analysis (Muhammad, 2023). These techniques help identify subtle acoustic features that traditional methods might overlook. By employing supervised and unsupervised learning models, researchers are now capable of analyzing phonetic data with increased accuracy and efficiency. Machine learning has facilitated the development of systems for automatic speech recognition and phonetic transcription, contributing significantly to linguistic research and language technology applications in Kano. Furthermore, these advancements have paved the way for improved language teaching tools and speech therapy applications, which are critical for preserving the phonetic integrity of Hausa (Bello, 2024). Despite these advancements, challenges remain in handling dialectal variations and background noise inherent in real-world data, necessitating further refinement of ML models to ensure high accuracy in diverse conditions (Abubakar, 2025). This study investigates the current state of machine learning applications in phonetic analysis and evaluates their potential to revolutionize the understanding of Hausa phonetics in Kano.
Statement of the Problem
Although machine learning offers promising avenues for phonetic analysis, current systems applied to Hausa language data in Kano face significant challenges. The complexity of Hausa’s tonal system and the presence of dialectal variations often lead to reduced model accuracy (Muhammad, 2023; Bello, 2024). Existing ML models sometimes struggle with noisy data from naturalistic recordings, resulting in misclassification of phonetic elements. This limitation hampers the development of reliable speech recognition and language teaching applications. Therefore, a thorough evaluation of current machine learning approaches is necessary to identify weaknesses and suggest improvements that can accurately capture the nuanced phonetic characteristics of Hausa.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it investigates the impact of machine learning on the phonetic analysis of Hausa, providing insights to enhance language technology and speech processing applications. The findings will support improved educational and linguistic tools in Kano by addressing the challenges of tonal variability and dialectal differences, ultimately contributing to better language preservation and technological innovation.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is focused on machine learning applications in phonetic analysis of the Hausa language in Kano and does not cover other linguistic aspects or regions.
Definitions of Terms
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