Cognition I: The Nature of Thought

These flashcards cover key concepts in language acquisition and conceptual knowledge from the lecture on cognition.

Nativist Theory of Language Acquisition

A theory proposing that language acquisition is an innate, biological capacity due to the Language Acquisition Device (LAD) in the human brain.

Language Acquisition Device (LAD)

A hypothetical module in the human brain posited to facilitate language learning as part of the nativist theory.

Interactionist Theory of Language Acquisition

A theory asserting that language development is influenced by the environment, experiences, and social interactions.

Language Acquisition Support System

The supportive environment that aids language acquisition, highlighted by Bruner in 1983.

Critical Period for Language Acquisition

A specific time frame in which language acquisition occurs more easily, according to nativist theories.

Social Interaction

A critical component in language learning, as infants acquire language sounds better through social engagement.

Environmental Factors

Elements from a child's surroundings that strongly predict the speed and quality of language acquisition.

Family Resemblance Theory

A theory suggesting that category members share several features in common, rather than having a strict definition.

Functional Specificity

The phenomenon where specific concepts activate distinct patterns of brain activity in different individuals.

Theory of Mind

The ability to understand that others have mental states that influence their actions and behaviors.