PHONOLOGICAL INTERFERENCE AMONG IGBO-ENGLISH BILINGUAL STUDENTS IN CARITAS UNIVERSITY

Abstract

This research work examines the phonological problems that Igbo-English bilinguals have. The purpose of this study is to identify the phonological problems Igbo-English bilinguals have while using spoken English. This research is important as its aim is to find out the phonological problems of students who are of Igbo origin and proffer solution to the problems. It will also help to improve the communicative competence of an Igbo child, since English language will continue to be an important school subject for many years to come. It will also serve as a communicative tool both for interpersonal and interethnic interactions in their everyday life. To achieve this, the researcher administered a test on the second year and third year student’s Igbo-English bilinguals of the Department of English, in Caritas University, Amorji-Nike Enugu. The researcher distributed 50 copies of questionnaire and used a tape recorder to record student’s pronunciations. At the end, it is found out that most of the students find it difficult to pronounce some English words wrongly. Findings from this work will also be of importance to language policy makers, language teachers and educators as well as linguists. Finally, it is hoped that if these recommendations are carried out successfully, the dignity of the spoken English will be restored in our dear nation (Nigeria).