Theoretical Perspectives

1. Nativist Perspective

1.1. Noam Chomsky

1.2. By nature, all humans have the ability to acquire language because humans are born with an inborn language mechanism.

2. Cognitive Development Perspective

2.1. Jean Piaget

2.1.1. Sub Idea 1

2.1.2. Sub Idea 2

2.2. Language development is acquired as cognitive development matures over time. Cognitive development is required and key element for language acquisition.

3. Interactionist Perspective

3.1. Lev Vygotsky, Lois Bloom, & Erin Tinker

3.2. Language is acquired through sociocultural interactions. Language is influenced by society and individuals have a need to communicate to function in a social world.

4. Behaviorist Perspective

4.1. Burrhus Frederic Skinner

4.2. Even though nature plays a role in language development; language acquisition needs to be provoked. Language needs stimuli, response, and positive reinforcement in order to develop. The environment also contributes to language development.