What Do the Stimuli in High Variability Phonetic Training Tell Us About Second Language Perception? Current Findings, Implications, and the Way Forward

This chapter explores how the stimuli in High Variability Phonetic Training (HVPT) paradigm contribute to the development of second language (L2) perceptual ability. The introduction defines key terminologies and will be followed by a brief historical account of the development of HVPT. Critical topics relevant to the stimulus characteristics of the HVPT protocol will then be identified and discussed in relation to how these methodological considerations potentially impact L2 learners’ perceptual development. Some practical implications for teaching and learning L2 perception in real-world contexts will also be discussed. The chapter concludes with insights into the future directions in researching and teaching L2 perception using HVPT as a pedagogical tool.