Cognitive Neuroscience of Language Acquisition

The ability to acquire language is unique to humans. This class explores our language-specific biological endowments. Topics include: Genetics and evolution of language; the brain-basis of acquisition; effects of age on language learning ability; effects of environmental differences (such as growing up blind or deaf) on acquisition; and language in special populations such as autism. Students will read and discuss empirical and theoretical articles, and complete writing assignments and problem sets. Prerequisite: CPSY 0060, 0610 , 0800 , or EDUC 0800 , or instructor permission. Enrollment limited to 20. Not open to first year students.