Term
2012
Capstone
Restricted Access Thesis
Degree Name
MAESL
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to find out how non-native speakers' perceptions of accent and self-esteem have an effect on their community participation. My personal experience as a NNS of English, and the conversations with other NNSs made me investigate the issue further. Data was collected from four adult participants with the help of a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. The results show that there are common perceptions about accent among the adult non-native speakers, and those perceptions may influence their self-esteem and community involvement. This study shows how important the feeling of belonging is to an accented speaker and how that influences their self-esteem and impacts the participation in the community. The findings encourage teachers to be aware of these perceptions and adjust their materials accordingly. The results bring attention to the difference between perception and reality with both NSs and NNSs.
Recommended Citation
Bergman, Daniela E, "Accent, self-esteem and community involvement: a study of adult non-native English speakers" (2012). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations. 482.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_all/482