This panel discussion aims to explore the socio-cultural circumstances relevant to accentedness of speech, and attitudes towards accented speech and linguistic variation in the university setting. The discussion will begin by uncovering some common linguistic myths and misconceptions about accents from the perspective of faculty and staff at Miami University. The panelists will then share their stories and experiences with accent perceptions and attitudes. The examples of accents will include foreign accents by speakers of English as an Additional Language and varieties of English. The discussion will involve on-the-spot interaction through an exchange of viewpoints or in response to questions from the audience. By the end of the panel, the participants will have a clear understanding of linguistic and social meaning of an accent and its significance in the university setting.
Panelists: Zeynep Aydogdu, Ebru Duffield, Meng Qu, Yuenan Jin Rodriguez and Galina Shleykina
Facilitator: Eun Chong Yang