Language acquisition, whether it's a first or second language, is a fascinating field of study. Researchers have been delving into this mystery for decades, seeking to understand how humans, both young and old, learn languages. This article offers a brief overview of the most significant findings in language acquisition research.
One of the most debated theories in language acquisition is the Critical Period Hypothesis (CPH). This theory posits that there is an optimal period (typically before puberty) in which a person can acquire a language with native-like proficiency. After this window, it becomes increasingly difficult (Lenneberg, 1967).
Chomsky (1965) introduced the concept of Universal Grammar, suggesting that humans possess an innate ability to learn languages. According to this theory, all languages share a common structural basis, and children have an in-built predisposition to acquire these structures.
Stephen Krashen's Input Hypothesis (1982) posits that understanding (or "comprehending") language input that is slightly beyond one's current proficiency level is crucial for language acquisition. Krashen labeled this ideal input as "i+1".
Vygotsky (1978) introduced a perspective that emphasizes the role of social interactions in language learning. According to this theory, language acquisition is deeply rooted in social communication, and interpersonal interactions facilitate the internalization of linguistic structures.
Recent advancements in neuroimaging techniques have provided insights into the brain's mechanisms during language learning. It's observed that bilinguals have denser gray matter in areas related to language processing compared to monolinguals (Mechelli et al., 2004). This suggests that the brain is capable of structural plasticity in response to language learning.
Language acquisition is a multifaceted process influenced by various cognitive, social, and environmental factors. As research progresses, we hope to further unravel the complex tapestry of how humans acquire languages.
For more insights into language learning, delve into articles such as Native Speaker Insights in Language Learning and The Role of Interactive Video in Language Learning.
Chomsky, N. (1965). Aspects of the theory of syntax. MIT Press.
Krashen, S. D. (1982). Principles and practice in second language acquisition. Pergamon Press.
Lenneberg, E. H. (1967). Biological foundations of language. Wiley.
Mechelli, A., Crinion, J. T., Noppeney, U., O'Doherty, J., Ashburner, J., Frackowiak, R. S., & Price, C. J. (2004). Structural plasticity in the bilingual brain. Nature, 431(7010), 757-761.
Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.