Resumen de Phonetic symbols vs keywords in perceptual training: the learners’ views

Jonas Fouz Gonzalez, José A. Mompeán González

• The potential of high-variability phonetic training (HVPT) to help FL learners improve their pronunciation is well documented. However, research exploring learners’ perceptions of the approach adopted after having experienced training is scarce. Likewise, the choice of labels adopted for training is not self-evident and has not been studied empirically. This study investigates EFL learners’ perceptions towards HVPT and the use of phonetic symbols vs keywords as labels for perceptual training. Seventy-one EFL learners followed four HVPT sessions using two types of labels (symbols and keywords). The results of Likert-type items and open questions in a questionnaire completed after training suggest that learners considered HVPT useful and that they would be willing to adopt it as part of their routine. The participants’ perceptions were positive towards both labels, although the group trained with symbols generally showed more positive attitudes towards training and were willing to continue using it more often.