Championed by B.F. Skinner, suggests that language is learned through imitation, reinforcement, and conditioning. Children learn by mimicking what they hear and receive positive feedback for correct usage.

Unique Component: Emphasis on observable behavior and environmental influences. Behaviorism focuses solely on what can be seen and measured, ignoring internal mental processes. This leads to a strong emphasis on imitation, repetition, and reinforcement as the driving forces behind language learning.

Associated with Noam Chomsky, suggests that humans are born with an innate capacity for language acquisition. 2 Chomsky proposed a Language Acquisition Device (LAD) in the brain, which enables children to acquire language rapidly and effortlessly

Unique Component: Innate Language Acquisition Device (LAD). This theory posits that humans are born with a pre-programmed biological capacity for language acquisition, suggesting an internal "device" that enables them to learn language effortlessly.

Linked to Jean Piaget, emphasizes the role of mental processes in language acquisition. Language learning is a process of cognitive development where learners construct meaning through assimilation, accommodation, and schema formation.

Unique Component: Focus on mental processes and cognitive development. Cognitivism emphasizes the role of internal mental processes, such as perception, memory, and problem-solving, in language acquisition. It views language learning as a process of constructing meaning and developing cognitive structures.

Influenced by Lev Vygotsky, highlights the importance of social interaction and communication in language acquisition. Language learning occurs through meaningful interactions with more proficient speakers who provide scaffolding, feedback, and support.

Unique Component: Emphasis on social interaction and communication. Interactionism highlights the importance of social interaction and communication in language acquisition. It suggests that language learning occurs through meaningful interactions with more proficient speakers who provide scaffolding, feedback, and support.