Abstract
AbstractLearning language requires acquiring the grammatical categories of words in the language, but learning those categories requires understanding the role of words in the syntax. In this study, we examined how this chicken and egg problem is resolved by learners of an artificial language comprising nouns, verbs, adjectives, and case markers following syntactic rules. We also measured individual differences in declarative and procedural memory processing, which have been linked to vocabulary and grammar learning, respectively. The results showed that grammar and vocabulary can be acquired simultaneously, but with distinctive patterns of acquisition: the syntactic role of verbs and their referents first, then other lexical categories, and finally the syntactic function of case markers. Interdependencies in learning were found for word order and verbs, which related to verbal declarative memory, and also for nouns, adjectives, and case markers, which related to procedural memory.
Highlights
The Current Study The current study focuses on whether learners’ ability to acquire an artificial language under cross-situational learning conditions is durable over time, and whether it is affected by individual differences in four memory systems that have been associated with language learning: phonological short-term memory, working memory capacity, declarative memory and procedural memory
Our study confirms that it is possible for adults to learn syntax and vocabulary simultaneously under cross-situational learning conditions and that the order of acquisition follows verb-dominant language acquisition, and that the learning effect persists after 24 hours
The durability aspect is important from a methodological perspective as does this show that knowledge is robust and that without a delayed test, learning can be in some cases underreported
Summary
The final objective of this study was to investigate the role of short and long-term memory systems (PSTM, working memory capacity, declarative memory and procedural memory) in the acquisition of this artificial language under cross-situational learning conditions. Did you notice any particular patterns or rules in the language while performing the task? What do you think the aim of this study was?
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
