Work

Using language input and lexical processing to predict vocabulary size

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: Children learn words by listening to caregivers, and the quantity and quality of early language input predict later language development. Recent research suggests that word recognition efficiency may influence the relationship between input and vocabulary growth. We asked whether language input and lexical processing at 28-39 months predicted vocabulary size one year later in 109 preschoolers. Input was measured using adult word counts from LENA recordings. We used the visual world paradigm and measured lexical processing as the rate of change in proportion of looks to target. Regression analysis showed that lexical processing did not constrain the effect of input on vocabulary size. We also found that input and processing were more reliable predictors of receptive than expressive vocabulary growth.

Source: Developmental Science

DOI: 10.1111/desc.12685

Authors: Tristan Mahr, Jan Edwards

Institutions: University of Wisconsin–Madison, University of Maryland, College Park

Language: English

Topic: Language Development and Disorders

Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development