HD 4380 - [Language and Thought throughout Development]

Spring. Next Offered: 2019-2020. 3 credits. Student option grading.

Permission of instructor required.

M. Casasola.

Does the language we speak shape our thinking? What is the nature of thinking without language? This seminar examines the relation between language and thought, exploring this relation across development, from infancy and childhood into adulthood. We will explore universal aspects of cognition that underlie language, and the effect of one’s native language on cognition. We accomplish this exploration by reviewing theoretical views and empirical findings on the relation between concept formation and language development and the synergistic relation between these two abilities.

Outcome 1: Students will be knowledgeable of the current theoretical views and empirical findings on the relation between language and thought in infants, children and adults.

Outcome 2: Students will be able to critically evaluate empirical findings.

Outcome 3: Students will be able to articulate a research hypothesis on this topic and design a study to this hypothesis.

Outcome 4: Students will develop their writing and oral communication skills.