What is Accent Reduction Training?
Accent Reduction Training is designed to help people who speak English as a second language improve their pronunciation of English speech sounds. Accent reduction training helps change speakers’ pronunciation patterns to sound more like Standard English (the way English is spoken by native speakers).
How does an Accent affect Communication?
People who speak English as a Second Language may produce sounds differently, leave out sounds, or use intonation patterns that make their speech sound different from the speech of native English speakers.
An accent can make it difficult for other people to understand your speech. People may pay more attention to your accent than what you are trying to say. People who speak English with an accent may feel frustrated at having to repeat themselves so others will understand them. These problems may have a negative impact on everyday communication, job performance, or performance at school.
How does Accent Reduction Training Work?
First, a certified and licensed speech-language pathologist will carefully analyze your speech patterns to identify all the ways your speech patterns and pronunciation vary from Standard English. Next, the speech pathologist will design a systematic program that will help you learn to hear and produce English sounds more clearly. You may also work on improving the intonation (rhythm) of your spoken English. With consistent practice, you can learn to pronounce speech sounds differently to improve the ease and clarity of your communication.
Who Can Benefit?
Anyone who speaks English as a Second Language and feels that their accent is negatively impacting their personal or professional life can benefit from Accent Reduction Training. Because the program is tailored to each individual speaker, services are available to people from all language backgrounds. Individual and group services are available.
Benefits of Accent Reduction Training include:
- More effective communication
- Improved speech clarity
- Improved communication in professional and social situations
- Increased self confidence when speaking
