Shadowing, a language learning technique that involves repeating speech immediately after hearing it, has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing listening comprehension and pronunciation skills among language learners. This article explores the theoretical background, practical applications, and measurable outcomes of shadowing in foreign language acquisition. Drawing on cognitive and phonetic research, it highlights how shadowing improves auditory processing, fosters automaticity in speech production, and strengthens the learner’s ability to perceive and reproduce prosodic features such as intonation, stress, and rhythm. The study examines different types of shadowing, including simultaneous, delayed, and prosodic-focused approaches, and discusses their effectiveness in diverse learning contexts. It also addresses the role of authentic materials, technology-assisted platforms, and integration into formal curricula. Empirical data from recent studies and classroom experiments provide evidence of shadowing’s positive impact on both receptive and productive language skills. In addition, the article offers recommendations for language teachers and self-learners on how to optimize shadowing practice, select appropriate materials, and combine it with complementary techniques for holistic language development. The findings suggest that shadowing is not only an effective pronunciation and listening training tool but also a means of building learner confidence and communicative competence.  

Shadowing, listening comprehension, pronunciation, language learning

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