Compare Between the Behaviorist Language Learning Theory and the Nativist Language Learning Theory

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nIntroduction

nHuman species develop a complicated system for communication and self-expression referred to as language. Nativism and behaviorism are two theories that discuss the process of acquisition of language. Behaviorists suggest that environment motivates the verbal character in a child that is supported and reinforced within certain duration because of regularly occurring events. For instance, families orally communicate to a child after birth and slowly he/she gains his or her first language (Cullata, 2015). However, according to nativist theorists, the ability of a child to acquire the first language strongly depends on the innate source (Scholz, 2011). Based on these arguments, the brain of a child has the capacity to gain language and ability to innovate language. Therefore, behaviorist and nativist theorist define the language acquisition via diverse prisms.

nBehaviorists school of thought is based on psychological theories that propose that environmental conditions affects the behavior of humans especially the acquisition of first language. It is a highly complicated learning role, which depends on other behaviors during infancy (Cullata, 2015). On the other hand, nativist is founded on a scientific thought, which describe the linguistic skills through natural selection and biological adaptation. It also argues that the development of a language takes place gradually (Vobs, 2016). Therefore, nativist theory is factual and rational while behaviorist system is philosophical.

nMoreover, behaviorist theory argues that the childs brain is like a blank account, which is later packed up with knowledge acquired from immediate experience. Environmental interaction helps a child to learn the first language (Stewart, 2012). In addition, a child learns a language via shaping and re-enforcement. For instance, parents help a child when he/she begin developing speech that inspires them to learn new oral skills. Similarly, parents also reinforce the speech of the child through approval and comprehension. Nonetheless, nativists suggest that the position of a child is within the baby customs because of inborn learning process that helps the child to understand a new/first language (Scholz, 2011). Nativist theorists note that humans have an innate tendency to acquire language. In this case, they suggest that human brain have device, which facilitates learning in the early stages of their lives (Vobs, 2016). Therefore, without the biological system they would experience a challenge in the process of learning.

nThe Second Language Learning can be explained through behaviorist theory. In this respect, the learning of the second language depends on the association between an interaction and a response. The learning is promoted by a trial and error system, which supports approval and comprehension of acceptable utterances (Cullata, 2015). Consequently, an individual is able to master finer details of the second language, which promotes appropriate utterances. However, the nativist theory does not account for the wide range of languages spoken in different parts of the world (Scholz, 2011). It concentrates on the process of development, which closely related to acquisition of the first language.

nConclusion

nResearch has indicated that both schools of thought play a role in explaining about the process of language acquisition in humans. In this regard, scholars point out that both theories are useful because learning behavior begins prior to fetus birth (Stewart, 2012). Most notably, the auditory system of a fetus has the ability to distinguish environmental conditions during the final stages of pregnancy especially during the third trimester (Farenga & Ness, 2015). Therefore, research is needed to help in explaining the acquisition of first language through the perceptual system of the fetus.

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nReferences

nCullata, R. (2015). Behaviorist Learning Theory. Innovativelearning.com. Retrieved 9 October 2016, from http://www.innovativelearning.com/teaching/behaviorism.html

nFarenga, S. J., & Ness, I. (2015). Encyclopedia of education and human development. Routledge.

nScholz, B. C. (2011). Philosophy of linguistics. Encyclopedia of Cognitive Science. International Journal of Philosophy, 10(13).

nStewart, M. (2012). Understanding learning: theories and critique. University teaching in focus: a learning-centred approach, 3-20.

nVobs,. (2016). Nativist Theory. Www2.vobs.at. Retrieved 9 October 2016, from https://www2.vobs.at/ludescher/Ludescher/LAcquisition/Nativist/nativist%20theory.htm