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Behaviorist learning theory & Error Analysis
In the 1940s, error analysis in language learning was heavily influenced by behaviorist learning theory, which attributed learners' errors to interference from their first language. Teachers and linguists used contrastive analysis to compare two languages and explain these errors. However, over time, it became clear that contrastive analysis alone was insufficient to fully account for all learner errors. -
Chomsky's Nativist Theory
In the 1950s and 60s, Chomsky's nativist theory shifted the focus of error analysis and language learning. It argued that language learning is not just habit formation but involves a universal grammar, with learners inherently capable of understanding any language's rules. Corder, influenced by this theory, noted that second and foreign language learners use similar techniques and strategies as those used by first language learners during their initial language acquisition. -
Corder's Contributions
Corder highlights that second and foreign language learners use similar learning strategies to those used in first language acquisition, integrating Chomsky's ideas into error analysis. -
Corder's Paper
Stephen Pit Corder publishes "The Significance of Learners’ Errors," which is considered a foundational work in modern Error Analysis. He argues that learner errors are a crucial part of the language learning process and provide valuable insights into learning strategies. -
Development of Interlanguage Theory
The concept of "interlanguage" emerges, recognizing that language learners create an evolving linguistic system influenced by both their first language and the target language. This further refines the understanding of errors in language learning. -
Expansion of Error Analysis
Error analysis continues to develop, incorporating insights from psycholinguistics, cognitive science, and sociolinguistics, and becoming an essential tool in language teaching and linguistic research.