Using language input and lexical processing to predict vocabulary size. Issue 6 (20th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mahr, Tristan; Edwards, Jan
• Is Part Of: Developmental science. Volume 21:Issue 6(2018)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2018-05-20
• Subjects: Developmental psychology -- Periodicals; Psychology, Comparative -- Periodicals; 155
• DOI: 10.1111/desc.12685
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1363-755X

Abstract

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. Abstract : We asked how lexical processing efficiency, home language input, and vocabulary at 28–39 months predicted vocabulary size one year later in 109 preschoolers. We found that processing and input measures were better predictors of receptive vocabulary growth than of expressive vocabulary growth.