How Important Is It for Learners of English to Have an Accent Like Native Speakers?

Kris Phattaraphakin; Michael  Ginn Lietz; Somboon  Ariya; Jaruwan  Skulkhu; Pimpatima  Suraseranee

Authors

Kris Phattaraphakin North Bangkok University, Nonthaburi, Thailand
Michael Ginn Lietz North Bangkok University, Nonthaburi, Thailand
Somboon Ariya North Bangkok University, Nonthaburi, Thailand
Jaruwan Skulkhu North Bangkok University, Nonthaburi, Thailand
Pimpatima Suraseranee North Bangkok University, Nonthaburi, Thailand

Keywords:

Learners of English, Accents, Native Speakers

Abstract

Many Thai learners prioritize learning English with native speakers to achieve native-like pronunciation. This study examines the importance of native accents for English learners, discussing linguistic factors, pronunciation challenges, and second-language learning theories. When a language is widely spoken within a community, multiple dialects emerge. Each dialect has its own characteristics, which are distinct from others. However, people generally think about British and American accents when talking about English accents. The British accent is spoken in the United Kingdom while the American accent is spoken in the United States. Some factors affecting second language learning are intelligence, aptitude, personality, motivation and attitudes, learning styles and age of acquisition. Thai people found that it was quite difficult for them to speak English correctly or have acceptable English pronunciation. This is because a lot of English sounds are not found in the Thai language. The problems of English pronunciation of Thai students are caused by two main factors, the differences between Thai and English sound systems, and the method of instruction for English pronunciation. An accent is the way a person sounds when he or she speaks. In general, there are two different kinds of accents, foreign and native accents.

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