YouGlish as a Tool of Improving English Pronunciation

Abstract

Currently, one can acquire English pronunciation skills by utilising a diverse range of video materials. Nevertheless, the majority of videos are currently utilised by learners in the role of knowledge recipients or as passive observers of video content (Fisher & Frey, 2015; Bakar et al., 2019). Seldom does research enable learners to actively and autonomously learn pronunciation. Hence, the present study investigated the use of YouGlish as a means to enhance students’ English pronunciation. YouGlish is a website that utilises YouTube videos to enhance English pronunciation. It assists users in accurately and appropriately pronouncing words, phrases and sentences. The study was carried out on a sample of 30 first-year students majoring in English at the University of Economics – Technology for Industries (UNETI). The data were collected through two sources: a pretest and posttest, and a questionnaire. The findings demonstrated that YouGlish facilitated students’ advancement and enhanced their engagement in acquiring English pronunciation.