SpeakGreek: An online speech training tool for L2 pedagogy and clinical intervention

This paper presents the first online biofeedback speech training tool for Greek designed to offer training on the production and perception of segmental and suprasegmental aspects of Greek. It is addressed to learners of Greek as an L2 and to clinical populations with articulation and phonation problems. The tool comprises four components: (i) the Phonetic Library, i.e., the acoustic, articulatory and visual description of different pronunciation aspects, (ii) the Basic Training, which trains users on phonation, pitch and intensity manipulation, (iii) the Sound Trainer, and (iv) the Melody Trainer, with perception and production exercises on sounds, stress and intonation. All components of production include real-time biofeedback. Initial results from L2 learners of Greek using two of the tool’s components show improvement on production of the intonation of whquestions and on consonant identification.