Briefly describe the difference between the behaviorist, nativist, and interactionist language acquisition theories.

Answer:

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: The behaviorist theories claim that language is learned through reinforcement and imitation. Children mimic the language of individuals that surround them and receive reinforcement for the correct formation of words. Words not reinforced are eventually no longer used. The nativist theories claim that individuals have an innate process used in language learning known as the language acquisition device (LAD), which assists in helping them learn language automatically. The interactionist theories claim innate processes (genetic predispositions) and experience (learning environments) both assist in language development. Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: The behaviorist theories claim that language is learned through reinforcement and imitation. Children mimic the language of individuals that surround them and receive reinforcement for the correct formation of words. Words not reinforced are eventually no longer used. The nativist theories claim that individuals have an innate process used in language learning known as the language acquisition device (LAD), which assists in helping them learn language automatically. The interactionist theories claim innate processes (genetic predispositions) and experience (learning environments) both assist in language development.