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LAL Lesson 5

college lecture in language Aquisition and learning

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8 views2 pages

LAL Lesson 5

college lecture in language Aquisition and learning

Uploaded by

jerico.mendoza
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Absolutely! Let’s delve into the Cognitive Theories of Language Acquisition.

Cognitive Approach
The Cognitive Approach to language acquisition emphasizes the role of mental processes. This perspective
suggests that language learning is a complex cognitive process that involves understanding, memory, and problem-
solving. Key figures in this approach include Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky.

Key Concepts in Cognitive Psychology

1. Mental Processes: Cognitive psychology investigates processes such as memory, perception, and problem-
solving.
2. Information Processing: This approach likens the mind to a computer, suggesting that information is input,
processed, and output in a systematic way.
3. Schema Development: Schemas are mental frameworks that help individuals organize and interpret
information.

Cognitive Theories of Language Acquisition


Cognitive theories propose that language acquisition is closely linked to the maturation and development of the
human brain. Here are the main points:

1. Piaget’s Theory of Cognitive Development:

Stages of Development: Jean Piaget proposed that children go through specific stages of cognitive
development, and language acquisition is part of this broader cognitive development.
Sensorimotor Stage (0-2 years): During this stage, infants learn about the world through their senses
and actions. Language development begins with simple sounds and progresses to words and sentences
as they interact with their environment.
Preoperational Stage (2-7 years): Children begin to use language to represent objects and ideas.
They engage in symbolic play and start to understand the concept of past and future.
Concrete Operational Stage (7-11 years): Logical thinking develops, and children start to
understand complex sentences and grammar rules.
Formal Operational Stage (12 years and up): Abstract thinking and hypothetical reasoning develop,
allowing for advanced language use and understanding.

2. Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory:

Social Interaction: Lev Vygotsky emphasized the importance of social interaction in language
development. He argued that children learn language through interactions with more knowledgeable
others, such as parents and teachers.
Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD): Vygotsky introduced the concept of the ZPD, which is the
difference between what a child can do independently and what they can do with guidance. Language
learning occurs most effectively within this zone.
Scaffolding: This refers to the support provided by adults or peers to help a child learn new language
skills. As the child becomes more proficient, the support is gradually removed.

3. Information Processing Theory:

Cognitive Processes: This theory focuses on the mental processes involved in language learning,
such as attention, memory, and problem-solving.
Parallel Distributed Processing: Language acquisition is seen as a process where multiple cognitive
processes work simultaneously to understand and produce language.
Connectionism: This model suggests that language learning involves creating neural connections in
the brain through exposure and practice. The more frequently certain words and structures are used,
the stronger these connections become.

Key Points of Cognitive Theories


Active Learning: Children are seen as active participants in their language learning process. They explore,
experiment, and interact with their environment to acquire language.
Developmental Stages: Language acquisition is linked to overall cognitive development, with specific
stages marking different levels of linguistic ability.
Social Context: Interaction with others is crucial for language development. Social interactions provide the
necessary context and feedback for learning language.

Conclusion

Cognitive theories of language acquisition provide a comprehensive understanding of how language is learned
through mental processes and social interactions. These theories highlight the importance of cognitive
development, active learning, and the role of social context in acquiring language.

If you have any specific questions or need further details on any aspect, feel free to ask!

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