Acquiring Variation in Classifier Learning: Evidence From Child and Adult Chinese Speakers (Poster 47)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 2:30 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Second Language Research SIG Poster Session

Abstract

This study examines the acquisition of semantic cues in classifier learning among Chinese adult and child speakers using an artificial language approach. It investigates the impact of age, semantic features, and word order on the learning of classifiers. Findings indicate that both adult and child learners learned items with a flat surface faster, suggesting variations in sensitivity to semantic cues. Adults outperformed children in immediate learning and generalization, highlighting cognitive development's role in classifier acquisition. No significant word order effect was found, challenging traditional assumptions. These results enhance our understanding of classifier learning and cognitive processes in linguistic categorization.

Authors

• Jiahuan Zhang, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

• Xinhua Zhu, Hong Kong Polytechnic University