The Effect of Vowel Variation in Nigerian English on Listener Comprehension: A Case Study of Radio Broadcasts
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Background of the Study
Vowel variation in Nigerian English has emerged as a significant factor affecting communication clarity and listener comprehension in media contexts. Radio broadcasts, as a primary source of news and entertainment, serve as an ideal setting to investigate how subtle shifts in vowel production impact audience understanding. Nigerian English, characterized by its unique phonetic adaptations, displays variations that are influenced by local dialects and sociolects. These variations may either enhance relatability or introduce ambiguity in spoken messages (Adeola, 2023). Broadcasters often adjust their vowel articulations consciously or unconsciously to cater to diverse audiences, a phenomenon that merits close examination. The study seeks to explore whether such variations contribute to misinterpretation or enrich the listener’s connection with the content. Research in similar multilingual contexts suggests that vowel clarity is paramount to effective message delivery, and slight deviations can alter semantic perception (Babatunde, 2024). By focusing on radio broadcasts—a medium where auditory processing is critical—this investigation will analyze recorded segments and listener feedback to understand how vowel variation influences comprehension. The interplay between standard phonetic models and localized pronunciation may shed light on how linguistic identity shapes media communication. This research not only contributes to the theoretical framework of phonetics in broadcast media but also provides practical insights for broadcasters aiming to improve audience engagement and message clarity (Okeke, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the central role of radio in Nigerian communication, there is limited empirical evidence on how vowel variation in Nigerian English affects listener comprehension. While previous studies have examined broader phonetic phenomena, few have focused specifically on vowel deviations within broadcast contexts. This gap in research makes it challenging for media practitioners to ascertain whether these variations enhance listener engagement or lead to miscommunication. Ambiguities arising from non-standard vowel pronunciations can undermine the clarity of news and public information, potentially impacting public opinion and trust in the media. The absence of detailed studies on this issue hinders the development of targeted communication strategies in radio broadcasting. Therefore, this study aims to address this lacuna by providing a systematic analysis of vowel variation and its consequent effects on comprehension among diverse listener groups (Adeola, 2023; Babatunde, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
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To identify key vowel variations in Nigerian English radio broadcasts.
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To assess the impact of these variations on listener comprehension.
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To provide recommendations for broadcasters on optimizing vowel clarity.
Research Questions
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What are the predominant vowel variations in Nigerian radio broadcasts?
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How do these variations affect listener comprehension and message clarity?
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What strategies can be adopted to mitigate potential miscommunication?
Significance of the Study
This study provides valuable insights into the role of vowel variation in media communication, emphasizing its impact on listener comprehension. The findings will benefit broadcasters, linguists, and communication policymakers by highlighting effective phonetic strategies for clear message delivery. Enhanced understanding of vowel dynamics will aid in developing training modules for broadcasters and improving overall radio communication standards. Ultimately, this research contributes to the broader field of sociophonetics and media studies, ensuring that radio remains an accessible and reliable medium for information dissemination (Adeola, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to analyzing vowel variations in Nigerian English radio broadcasts. It does not extend to other phonetic features or communication mediums.
Definitions of Terms
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Vowel Variation: Differences in vowel pronunciation that occur within a language.
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Listener Comprehension: The ability of an audience to understand spoken messages.
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Radio Broadcasts: Audio programs transmitted over radio frequencies for public consumption.
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