LANGUAGE ACQUISITION - 212

WEEK 7

What I learnt was that there are differences between first and second
language acquisition. The time of exposure is the most important factor.
That’s why the first language is ACQUIRED in a natural way while the
second one is LEARNT. It distinguishes one from another. First language
acquisition is begun from birth and is gained through experiences, and
infant is exposed to the language much more than the second one. We
dealt with the subject in view of behaviorism. Behaviorists consider the
human mind as a “tabula rasa” which means empty mind and according to
them it can be filled through experiences. And according to them, data
must be observable because their studies rely on their experiments.

What I had difficulty in figuring out was nothing, I hope. Everything is fine.

I suppose I need to focus more on thinking about the problem or

challanges in a subject, because while listening, i feel that everything is
alright. But when it is time to express my own thoughts about it, i get
stuck L.I should ask myself more questions than i did.

I believe I may use specific information about FLA for my future baby.
(When can s/he speak or comprehend the linguistic input?) I won’t be able
to use them exactly but maybe be able to remember while observing him
or her. Due to beginning from birth, I don’t think I can use the strategies in
my teaching. And also most of the behaviorists principles are not
appropriate for me especially the matter about the observable data. I am
one of those who appreciate the learner’s inner world.