When using an authentic audio or video it is important to use only ‘native speakers'.

When using an authentic audio or video it is important to use only ‘native speakers'.

Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons.

I believe that as a teacher there should be authentic materials, be it reading or listening, included in the classroom. However, I disagree that only native speakers should be used.

In my opinion, the input given through native speakers is misleading as learners think that that is the only natural accent that they should acquire in order to learn a language properly. As a result, learners tend to believe that every other accent is irregular to the language.
In addition, sometimes learners feel unmotivated to continue learning because of the influence of native speakers. They have difficulties reaching the same language level as the native speaker thus they lose their interest.

Therefore, I consider it important for learners to be exposed to many different speakers of the language in order for them to get used to various versions of a language and to understand that having an accent is not important as long as they become competent in the usage of language for everyday situations.