1.1. Theorized that all people inherently (inborn language mechanism) have the capability to acquire language through cognitive structures from other stimuli (Otto, 2010). Believes children discover the structure of their language by exploring language in oral and written forms. Linguist Noam Chomsky is the major theorist associated with nativist
2. Behaviorist
2.1. Theorized learning occurs based on stimuli, reinforcements, and responses from one’s environment or “nurture” (Otto, 2010). Imitative speech occurs during a process when children mimic adult speech which is reinforced by their environment during operant conditioning. Operant conditioning was coined by B.F. Skinner.Theorized learning occurs based on stimuli, reinforcements, and responses from one’s environment or “nurture” (Otto, 2010). Imitative speech occurs during a process when children mimic adult speech which is reinforced by their environment during operant conditioning. Operant conditioning was coined by B.F. Skinner.
3. Cognitive Developmentalist
3.1. Theorized language and cognitive competences develop with time (maturation). People develop through schemata (interpersonal interaction and communication) and the manipulation of symbols (Otto, 2010). Jean Piaget introduced the cognitive developmental perspective.
4. Interactionist
4.1. Theorized children acquire language by interacting and acquiring language from the world around them (Otto, 2010). The environment around them supports language development through interaction also known as language acquisition support system or LASS. LASS was developed by the theorist Jerome Bruner.
