Consonant clusters in online L2 teaching: a multilingual approach

Resumen

L1-L2map and CALST (Computer-Assisted Listening and Speaking Tutor) are two complementary platforms for second language pronunciation teaching developed at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim. L1-L2map is a multilingual database that allows comparison of the phoneme inventories of a large number of languages. CALST is a Norwegian computer-assisted pronunciation training system (CAPT), which uses the result from the contrastive analysis in L1-L2map to select different pronunciation exercises depending on the native language of the user. The online version of L1-L2map and CALST contains segmental information and exercises for practicing the perception and production of individual sounds and sound contrasts. But for speakers of many languages, consonant clusters in a foreign language are hard to perceive and pronounce, even if the speakers have no difficulty with the individual consonants. The present article presents the expansion of the multilingual platforms with a contrastive analysis of consonant clusters and exercises to train their pronunciation. The article also discusses some of the methodological challenges in incorporating consonant clusters in L1-L2map and CALST.