Shortcomings in the JET Programme as a Vehicle for English Pronunciation Teaching by Native Speakers

What is it about?

This research put the notion that the native-speaking is valuable for teaching pronunciation to the test. Analyzing a corpus of 4879 teaching materials created for the JET Programme found many important shortcomings in how the native speakers in this program teach pronunciation. The results cast doubt upon the inherent value of the native speaker as a pronunciation teacher, particularly via the JET instructional delivery model with its use of untrained native-speaking teachers who mostly make periodic classroom visits as an "assistant" teacher. These findings are important since JET-style programs have been adopted across Asia.

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Photo by Centre for Ageing Better on Unsplash

Photo by Centre for Ageing Better on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This research is important for its implications regarding the recruitment of untrained native-speaking teachers across Asia based heavily upon the assumption that they have inherent value as communication and, especially, pronunciation teachers.