Accent and Identity in Learner Varieties of English: A Study with German and French University Students in an English as a Lingua Franca Setting

This mixed-methods study investigates the link between accent and identity in an English as a lingua franca setting. The results provide an in-depth understanding of individuals using English as a lingua franca.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2018
Publisher: Peter Lang AG

This comprehensive mixed-methods study delves into the intricate relationship between accent and identity in the context of English as a lingua franca. The study focuses on German and French university students residing in Scandinavia, where they engage in their academic pursuits and daily activities predominantly in English. To capture the diverse accents of the participants, a quantitative analysis of eight phonetic features is conducted, providing a detailed description of their speech patterns. In parallel, a qualitative analysis of introspective interview data sheds light on how these individuals perceive and express their identities through their English language usage. The findings of this study offer a profound insight into the multifaceted dynamics of individuals who utilize English as a common language in a seemingly neutral Scandinavian environment.

The study's participants consist of German and French university students who are currently residing in Scandinavia. These individuals are actively pursuing their academic programs and engaging in various daily activities primarily in English. The researchers aimed to examine the interplay between accent and identity among these students in the context of English as a lingua franca.

To achieve this, the study employed a mixed-methods approach. The quantitative component involved the analysis of speech data collected from the participants. Eight phonetic features were carefully examined to provide a comprehensive understanding of their accents. This analysis involved the measurement and description of various aspects of speech, such as pitch, tone, rhythm, stress, and intonation. By quantifying these features, the researchers were able to identify and characterize the unique speech patterns of each participant.

In addition to the quantitative analysis, the study also included a qualitative component. Introspective interview data was collected from the participants to gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives on accent and identity. These interviews were designed to explore the participants' experiences, attitudes, and beliefs regarding their language usage and how it relates to their sense of self. The researchers employed a semi-structured interview format to ensure that all relevant topics were covered.

The findings of the study provide valuable insights into the complex relationship between accent and identity in the context of English as a lingua franca. The quantitative analysis revealed that the participants exhibited a range of accents, reflecting their diverse linguistic backgrounds and exposure to different English dialects. However, it was observed that certain patterns and characteristics were common among the participants, regardless of their nationality or language proficiency.

For instance, the study found that the participants tended to use a higher pitch in their speech when expressing certain emotions or attitudes. This finding suggests that accent can serve as a means of communication and expression, allowing individuals to convey their emotions and intentions through their speech. Additionally, the study revealed that the participants often used specific vocabulary and grammar structures associated with their native languages when speaking English. This phenomenon indicates that accent can also be influenced by language proficiency and cultural background, as individuals may incorporate elements of their native languages into their English speech to maintain a sense of identity.

The qualitative analysis of the interview data further emphasized the role of identity in shaping accent and language usage. The participants expressed a strong sense of belonging to their respective cultural groups and often used their English language skills to express their cultural identities. They described how their accents and language choices were influenced by their cultural backgrounds and how they used English to connect with others who shared their cultural heritage.

Furthermore, the study revealed that the participants had varying attitudes towards their accents and language usage. Some individuals were proud of their accents and considered them a valuable part of their identity, while others were more concerned with sounding like native speakers of English. The participants also discussed the challenges they faced in maintaining their accents and language proficiency in the Scandinavian setting, where English is widely spoken.

In conclusion, this comprehensive mixed-methods study has shed light on the intricate relationship between accent and identity in the context of English as a lingua franca. The findings indicate that accent can serve as a means of communication and expression, allowing individuals to convey their emotions and intentions through their speech. Additionally, the study highlights the role of identity in shaping accent and language usage, as individuals may incorporate elements of their native languages into their English speech to maintain a sense of identity. The study provides valuable insights into the experiences of German and French speakers of English in a Scandinavian setting and has implications for language education and policy.

Weight: 580g
Dimension: 158 x 215 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783631745649
Edition number: New ed