Is accent modification different than ESL?

Yes, and one comes first.

ESL (English as a Second Language) classes are designed to help non-native English speakers improve their language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Instructors are trained in second language acquisition, often with a certification in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), and teach topics such as vocabulary, grammar, listening comprehension, and writing.

(Side note: ESL is sometimes replaced by the term ELL for English Language Learners, to reflect that many English learners already speak multiple languages!)

Accent modification comes after ESL classes and/or once a non-native speaker has reached an advanced level of English. This is because discussing, for example, how vowels are produced, when certain syllables are stressed, and how intonation depends on the speaker’s intent/emotion requires a high level of English proficiency. However, more foundational sound skills such as perceiving the difference between the vowels in “fit” and “feet” can be introduced to a speaker at an intermediate level.

Relevant research:

Nushi, M., & Momeni, A. (2021). English Listening and Speaking: A Review. TESL-EJ, 25(3).

Wei, X. (2025). The Effectiveness of Flipped Classroom in Improving English Communication Skills: A Focus on Listening and Speaking. Advances in Social Behavior Research, 14, 84–88.

Allaberganova, S. X., & Bozorboyeva, I. M. (2025). Integrating Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing: Effective Approaches for University-Level ESL Students. International Journal of Artificial Intelligence, 5(06), 960–963.

Evidence-based reading interventions for English language learners: A multilevel meta-analysis (2023). PMC8461348.

The Effectiveness of Cooperative Learning to Enhance Oral English Proficiency: A Review & Synthesis (2021). Academy of Educational Leadership Journal.