Human Simulations of Vocabulary Learning
Jane Gillette, Henry Gleitman, Lila R. Gleitman, Anne Lederer · 2020
Abstract This paper investigates the generalization that noun learning systematically precedes verb learning. Rather than blame this observation on differences in conceptual content, the authors argue that the information requirements of verb learning crucially determine the acquisition order. Efficient verb learning requires access to structural features of the exposure language and thus cannot take place until a scaffolding of noun knowledge enables the acquisition of clause level syntax. A set of experiments with adult subjects ask about the kinds of information that support learning nouns vs. verbs. The proportion correctly identified and the type of word that is identifiable changes significantly as a function of information type.