Accents can be reduced significantly. Teaching assistants at Michigan State University have improved their speaking ability as much as 65 per cent in the TEAM program.

No two individuals are the same. Rate and degree of improvement depend on a number of factors, such as the extent of the foreign accent, additional needs such as grammatical or voice improvement, and commitment to the program. Foreign accent modification takes hard work and dedication. Individuals who attend recommended sessions and practice diligently can expect a significant change in their accent.

First, you will be accessed for what is most troublesome for others to understand when you speak. This program is designed to improve what you already know. It is not intended to teach you English.

Second, a customized lesson plan and manual is developed according to your special needs.

For eight to nine weeks, you will be privately tutored one-on-one twice a week. You will be provided with a daily progress report. Each session will be for 90 minutes: one hour of intense tutoring and one-half hour of conversational English.

Each lesson is aided by TEAM software, which includes listening, vowel plots, intonation contour graphs, helpful articulation hints, and records your performance and compares it to the model. You will learn how to analyze and self-correct your speech to become a confident, articulate speaker.

Your progress will depend upon your own study efforts, and daily practice. You will be given private access to online exercises that are designed for you to practice at home.

At the end of the course, another assessment will be done. This will help you to know the areas you need to continue learning and practicing.