Heriau ynganu’r Gymraeg i ddysgwyr Sbaeneg eu hiaith gyntaf: profiadau dysgwyr a thiwtoriaid yn y Wladfa (Pronunciation challenges in Welsh for first language Spanish speakers: learners’ and tutors’ experiences in y Wladfa, Argentina)

This article explores the pronunciation challenges faced by L1 Spanish speakers who are learning Welsh. Data was gathered through conducting focus groups and questionnaires with tutors and learners in y Wladfa, Patagonia. Nine tutors took part in the study, five from Argentina and four from Wales. Questionnaire data were collected from 24 learners.

The study reveals that L1 Spanish speakers from Argentina face different challenges to their L1 English speaking counterparts. These pronunciation challenges can be attributed to phonological transfer from the native language. The research highlights a difference in the perceived difficulties of sounds between tutors
and learners which calls into question the role of perception in the acquisition of speech sounds. A recommendation is presented for collecting data on learners’ linguistic backgrounds which will be crucial for developing Welsh language education for adults by supporting learners from all language backgrounds.