Abstract

Accurate and clear pronunciation is one of the most desirable features to achieve a successful communication. However, in Thailand, the pronunciation seems to be neglected in most skills. Mostly, students were forced to learn grammar and structure only. Consequently, Thai students, especially in a remote area where English native speakers were insufficient, were found unable to pronounce English words correctly. To provide chances for students in a remote area, this paper aims to examine English pronunciation by students in a remote area and to evaluate the students' performance in English pronunciation using Google translate mobile application. The 24 university students who experience the learning incorporated mobile application were selected by a selected purposive sampling process.  The pre and post-pronunciation tests were obtained, together with, semi-structured interviews. The finding indicated that all students' pronunciation was significantly improved. All students revealed that mobile application helped them improve their pronunciation ability, even the one who has limited English pronunciation ability.

Key words: English pronunciation, a remote area, mobile application, Google translates.