1. Nativist Theory (Chomsky):
* Core Idea: Humans are born with an innate capacity for language, a "Language Acquisition Device" (LAD). This LAD contains universal grammar principles, enabling children to acquire language quickly and effortlessly.
* Key Features:
* Universal Grammar: All languages share fundamental structures and rules.
* Poverty of Stimulus: Children learn language too quickly and effortlessly for it to be solely based on environmental input.
* Critical Period: There is a sensitive period in early childhood when language acquisition is most efficient.
* Evidence: Children's ability to produce novel sentences they've never heard before, similarities in language development across cultures, and the challenges faced by individuals learning languages after childhood.
2. Social Interactionist Theory (Vygotsky):
* Core Idea: Language development is driven by social interaction and communication. Children learn language through meaningful interactions with caregivers and peers.
* Key Features:
* Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD): The gap between what a child can do independently and what they can achieve with help.
* Scaffolding: Adults provide support and guidance to help children learn new language skills.
* Joint Attention: The ability to share focus on the same object or event, crucial for learning language in context.
* Evidence: Children's language development is closely tied to their social experiences, the role of caregivers in providing language models and support, and the importance of social interaction for language learning.
In summary:
* Nativist theory emphasizes the biological and innate aspects of language acquisition.
* Social Interactionist theory highlights the role of social interaction and learning through communication.
Both theories contribute to understanding language development, but they offer different perspectives on the primary drivers of this complex process. Researchers continue to explore the interplay of innate abilities and environmental influences in shaping language acquisition.