Prosody and fluency of Finland Swedish as a second language: Investigating global parameters for automated speaking assessment

This study investigates prosody and fluency of Finland Swedish as a second language (L2). The main objective is to investigate global measures predictors overall oral proficiency, fluency, pronunciation ratings. We analyzed parameters related temporal timing (based on syllable durations), f0 change from spontaneous speech produced by 30 native 235 non-native speakers representing proficiency levels beginner intermediate. used pairwise comparisons the differences between (L1) L2 samples different levels. To predictability ratings with acoustic parameters, we fitted multiple linear regression model for each assessed dimension skills. comparison L1 well showed clear in parameters. Standard deviation durations also respect learners’ level. results models, however, indicate contribution rate-normalized standard duration ratings, alongside traditionally As slope complemented prediction model. predictive power varied depending provides new information prosodic features suggests research assessment non-dominant varieties pluricentric languages. support previous findings importance speed pausing predicting However, further investigation language-specific part automated or computer-assisted speaking called for.