The application of computer assisted approach with British e-dictionary to enhance English pronunciation of o’level students: a case study of Masaka sector in Kigali City.

Abstract

This research was aimed to identify the causes of poor English pronunciation of ordinary level students in Masaka sector, assess the application of computer assisted approach in English class to boost speaking ability among O’ level students in Masaka sector and determine the impact of computer assisted approach during the teaching and learning of English pronunciation. The target population for this study is 170 from which a sample of 63 participants was computed by adopting the formula of Naissuma (2010). Questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions with learners during assessment activity were used to collect primary data and afterwards data was entered, coded and analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. The findings were presented in frequencies and percentages as well as tables from which conclusions and recommendations were drawn. The findings reported that the level of application of computer assisted approach (British e-dictionary) to enhance English pronunciation among students at G.S Rusheshe and G.S Ayabaraya is not effective. First of all some English teachers are not familiar with technology. Besides, internet connection is sometimes weak. However, the approach was reported to boost the elucidation of segmental features of vocabulary and led to quick understanding of the pronunciation when it is used. After using the approach (Two times), there was a remarkable improvement of 71.6% of learners who pronounced vocabulary correctly against 28.4% who failed to capture the standard British pronunciation.