Listening Training on Consonants Using Synthetic Speech for Japanese Learners of Russian Language

Synthetic speech offers the potential to enhance the learning environment for Russian as a Foreign Language (RFL). This study examines the effectiveness of and learners' behavior associated with synthetic speech in RFL listening training. A total of 73 Japanese learners of RFL participated in the study. The participants were divided into two groups and completed computer-based listening training on consonants /b/-/v/ and /ž/-/z//d/, using human and synthetic speech. Results from pretests, posttests, and training records indicated that the learning outcomes and behaviors in synthetic speech-based training were comparable to those in human speech-based training. However, differences in learning outcomes tended to differ depending on the specific consonants being trained.