English Pronunciation Learning Challenges: A Case study of Mundu EFL learners in Chad

Abstract

The present study aims at investigating the pronunciation components in the prescribed English Language Syllabus for High Schools as well as the pronunciation instruction in some selected High Schools in Moundou, Chad, in order to determine the impact on learners’ production with respect to this phonological feature. The content analysis method was adopted for the investigation. Data were drawn from consultation of the National English Language Syllabus for High Schools in Chad, and 44 English Teachers’ logbooks for the 2021/2022 academic year. These logbooks were collected from 6 Government High Schools in Moundou. Two research questions guided the collection of data which were later on classified, put in numerical data and analysed within the framework of the Factors Affecting Pronunciation Theory. Results of the study revealed a total lack of pronunciation prescription in the English language syllabus and a zero percent representation of pronunciation related lessons in English language classes. Hence, it could be concluded that pronunciation instruction in English language lessons, to a greater extent, has been neglected in some High Schools in Chad. This has created enormous challenges resulting to poor pronunciation, segmental feature errors, and deviances in supra-segments, etc., in the speech production of learners.