* Environmental Influences: Skinner argued that children learn language through interaction with their environment. This includes observing and imitating language use, and receiving positive reinforcement (like praise or smiles) for correct usage.
* Operant Conditioning: Skinner saw language as a behavior shaped by consequences. Children are more likely to repeat words or phrases that are rewarded, and less likely to use those that are ignored or punished.
* Verbal Behavior: Skinner proposed that language is a form of verbal behavior, a set of responses learned through conditioning. He focused on the analysis of verbal behavior in terms of antecedents (stimuli) and consequences (reinforcement).
Key Points:
* Rejection of Innate Mechanisms: Skinner rejected the idea of an innate language acquisition device, arguing that language is learned through environmental interaction.
* Focus on Observable Behavior: Skinner's theory emphasizes the importance of observing and analyzing observable behavior, like speech production and the responses it elicits.
* Emphasis on Reinforcement: Skinner saw reinforcement as the primary driver of language acquisition. Children learn to use language through positive reinforcement for correct usage.
Criticisms:
* Limited Scope: Skinner's theory is criticized for its limited scope, as it does not adequately explain complex linguistic features like grammar and syntax.
* Neglect of Cognitive Factors: Critics argue that Skinner's theory overlooks the role of cognitive processes, such as the ability to generalize and abstract, in language development.
* Lack of Evidence: There is limited empirical evidence to support the claim that reinforcement plays the dominant role in language acquisition.
In Summary:
While Skinner's emphasis on environmental influences and reinforcement has been influential in shaping our understanding of language acquisition, his theory is considered overly simplistic and has been challenged by subsequent research. Today, the prevailing view is that language development involves a complex interplay of biological, cognitive, and environmental factors.