Abstract

Previous studies reported that intensive and high-variability perceptual training of the full set of vowels can significantly improve L2 vowel acquisition. This study provided five training programs which differed in the amount of training on the more confusing vowel pairs and the availability of vowel articulation information to 85 native Cantonese-speakers learning English as a second language. The results showed that all the five training programs were effective in enhancing English vowel identification in Cantonese speakers. Similarities and differences of the effects of the programs and factors affecting L2 vowel acquisition will be discussed.