IMPROVING ENGLISH PRONUNCIATION SKILL THROUGH PHONETIC TRAINING FROM WEB-BASED MATERIALS

Abstract

The research aims to investigate the effectiveness of using web-based materials in developing English pronunciation skills of non-English major sophomores at the University of Economics-Technology for Industries (UNETI). This research endorsed a semi-experimental design. The research participants were divided into two groups: the control group (N=20) and the experimental group (N=20). To collect data, an oral EFL pronunciation test recorded in video or audio was performed before and after for both groups. The obtained data was analyzed using Microsoft Office 365 Excel. The results showed that there was a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of the experimental group and the control group in favor of the experimental group. Web-based materials are effective in developing English as a Foreign Language (EFL) pronunciation skills for non-English major sophomores at the University of Economics-Technology for Industries (UNETI) because it includes materials that are intended to increase student engagement and interaction and provide them with more exposure to the target language, which has helped improve their EFL pronunciation. Based on the research findings, both the theoretical and practical aspects of EFL pronunciation should be taught side by side in an integrated manner; the practical part is not separate from the theory part.