AI-mediated pronunciation training: Vietnamese EFL learners' perceptions of ELSA speak

Vuong Thi Hai Yen, Nguyen Thi Thu Huyen — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0600

This study examines how first-year English majors at Hanoi Metropolitan University, Vietnam perceive ELSA Speak as a pronunciation learning tool, with a focus on learner autonomy, technological affordances, and institutional constraints within mobile-assisted language learning (MALL). Using a convergent parallel mixed-method design, the study collected quantitative data from 110 participants through a structured survey (Cronbach's alpha = 0.87) and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 24 purposively selected participants. Data were analysed using SPSS 26.0, thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke [1] and NVivo 12, within a theoretical framework integrating the Technology Acceptance Model and Self-Determination Theory. 77.3% percent of the participants found ELSA Speak effective or highly effective for improving their pronunciation. Learners reported increased confidence (81.8%) and motivation (68.2%), and they considered instant phoneme feedback the most valuable feature (M = 4.2, SD = 0.7). Three primary constraints were consistently cited: inadequate contextual practice (forty point nine percent), the expense associated with premium functionalities (36.4%), and connectivity issues (31.8%). Qualitative examination identified accent bias within speech recognition as a prevalent concern, specifically impacting the precision of feedback for English spoken with a Vietnamese accent. These observations indicate that ELSA Speak facilitates pronunciation practice and learner autonomy, despite accent bias, an over-dependence on automated feedback, and a restricted emphasis on suprasegmental features representing notable limitations. Therefore, educators should use ELSA Speak in blended learning environments that combine AI tools with traditional teaching methods. At the same time, institutions should address accessibility issues related to cost and infrastructure.

Water use optimization in fish farms: Efficient strategies to reduce environmental impact

Cristhian Andrey Paz Ruiz, Arnol Arias Hoyos, Edwin Fernando Sierra-Gaviria — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0600

Aquaculture has now become an important agricultural activity in meeting global food needs. However, the intensification of this activity places daily pressure on water resources and aquatic ecosystems. The goal of this study was to find efficient ways to optimize water use in fish farms, helping to reduce their environmental impact. We did a literature review using systematic mapping that combined analysis of scientific databases with defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results showed that there is a growing interest in the search for technologies that enable water savings and efficient use in the aquaculture chain, notably recirculation, biofloc, aquaponics, and biofiltration, which can reduce water consumption and minimize the pollutant load in water. It is concluded that the adoption of alternatives for water resource management in aquaculture is a viable path that contributes to the sustainability and competitiveness of this economic activity.

International Journal of Innovative Research and Scientific Studies

AI-mediated pronunciation training: Vietnamese EFL learners' perceptions of ELSA speak

Water use optimization in fish farms: Efficient strategies to reduce environmental impact