Understanding the Phonological Features of Child Development Workers in Selected Centers in Antique, Philippines

Abstract

This study ascertained the phonological characteristics of childcare providers in a province in the middle of the Philippines. Specifically, the goal was to pinpoint the segmental and supra-segmental (stress and intonation) characteristics of the child development workers as well as any potential influencing factors. Based on the definitions of Philippine English as a unique form of English, the paper employs a qualitative-descriptive research design with document analysis to examine pertinent data from child development workers who were purposively chosen. The results showed that there are instances of substitution and absence in various consonant, and front and back vowel sounds. Additionally, the results verified that the affricate noises were present. Regarding supra-segmental characteristics, most informants place the primary stress on the second syllable of two-syllable words; for three-syllable words, the primary stress was placed on the first syllable, whereas for four-syllable words, the primary stress was placed either on the second or third syllable rather than the first. The generation of rising intonation in statements and W-H questions is the characteristic for intonation pattern. The results of this study suggest that the phonological characteristics of the childcare providers, who are mesolectal English speakers, may be impacted by their exposure to the first language. Ultimately, the research draws the conclusion that to address the concern over these traits, an intervention program is required.