Pronunciation Problem with Bengali Speaking Learners and Trends in Modern English Phonology: A Case Study

Abstract

Pronunciation is defined as the way a sound is spoken, or the way a specific person produces words, according to the 7th edition of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary. Pronunciation is a fundamental aspect of second or foreign language acquisition, playing a crucial role in a learner’s ability to communicate effectively. For Bengali speakers, mastering English pronunciation presents unique challenges due to the distinct phonetic structures of the two languages. The differences in sound systems often lead to difficulties in producing certain English phonemes accurately. When learning English as a second language (L2), Bengali-speaking learners frequently encounter phonetic and phonological obstacles that impede their progress. These challenges not only slow down their learning but also hinder their overall proficiency in English pronunciation. This article explores contemporary issues faced by Bengali learners in pronouncing English sounds and examines modern phonological approaches to address these difficulties. This research offers valuable insights for English language learners, particularly those struggling with pronunciation challenges. By examining the key factors that influence pronunciation accuracy, the study provides a foundation for targeted learning strategies. Additionally, engineering students can benefit significantly from these findings, as improved English pronunciation contributes to both their academic growth and professional communication skills in global technical environments. This study offers valuable insights for English language educators in Bangladesh, providing them with research-based approaches to address common pronunciation challenges faced by Bengali-speaking students. The findings enable teachers to better understand the linguistic factors affecting Bangladeshi learners' English pronunciation while introducing contemporary phonological concepts that can enhance classroom instruction. Educators may utilize these evidence-based strategies to develop more effective pronunciation teaching methodologies tailored to their students' specific needs.