Module Description:
This course explores how children learn about the sound structure of their native language. We trace this process from birth to the first school years, and examine what methods can be used to study it. We also consider what kind of learning mechanisms are at play, and how phonological knowledge can help children in initialising the acquisition of other aspects of language, such as grammar and vocabulary. Finally, we discuss how phonological development differs in children with common types of speech sound disorders, and what methods can be used for their remediation. Both perception and production are evaluated.
Learning Outcomes
(i) to provide students with an overview of theoretical issues, experimental methods, and psycholinguistic models in early phonological acquisition
(ii) to enable students to understand and assess current scientific debates in this area, and
(iii) to help students understand the clinical implications of speech sound disorders.
This course explores how children learn about the sound structure of their native language. We trace this process from birth to the first school years, and examine what methods can be used to study it. We also consider what kind of learning mechanisms are at play, and how phonological knowledge can help children in initialising the acquisition of other aspects of language, such as grammar and vocabulary. Finally, we discuss how phonological development differs in children with common types of speech sound disorders, and what methods can be used for their remediation. Both perception and production are evaluated.
Learning Outcomes
(i) to provide students with an overview of theoretical issues, experimental methods, and psycholinguistic models in early phonological acquisition
(ii) to enable students to understand and assess current scientific debates in this area, and
(iii) to help students understand the clinical implications of speech sound disorders.
- Module Supervisor: Claire Delle Luche