A Multi-Comparative Approach to the Study of Child Language Development in China

Zhou Peng and Xie Yuan

Chinese Journal of Language Policy and Planning ›› 2023, Vol. 8 ›› Issue (3) : 13-24.

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Chinese Journal of Language Policy and Planning ›› 2023, Vol. 8 ›› Issue (3) : 13-24. DOI: 10.19689/j.cnki.cn10-1361/h.20230301

A Multi-Comparative Approach to the Study of Child Language Development in China

  • Zhou Peng and Xie Yuan
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Abstract

To address the major limitations of previous research on child language development, this paper proposes a multi-comparative approach, viz. (i) comparisons are made across different populations and developmental stages using a combination of cross-sectional and longitudinal designs; (ii) comparisons are conducted between laboratory and open environments that incorporate crucial home environmental factors; and (iii) comparisons are made across typologically distinct languages using the rich diversity of Chinese languages. By elaborating on the multi-comparative approach, the paper aims to point towards three essential “shifts” in the field of child language research: (i) to construct causal models instead of investigating simple correlations; (ii) to study language development in natural environment rather than in laboratory settings; and (iii) to focus on the rich diversity of Chinese languages instead of merely looking for comparisons between Chinese and Indo-European languages.

Key words

multi-comparative approach / cross populations / cross developmental stages / cross languages / construction of causal models

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Zhou Peng and Xie Yuan. A Multi-Comparative Approach to the Study of Child Language Development in China[J]. Chinese Journal of Language Policy and Planning. 2023, 8(3): 13-24 https://doi.org/10.19689/j.cnki.cn10-1361/h.20230301

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