Explain the three sub theories in bilingualism-contextual,experimential and componential
The three sub theories of bilingualism are contextual theory, experiential theory, and componential theory.
1. Contextual Theory: The contextual theory suggests that bilingualism is influenced by the social and cultural context in which an individual grows up. According to this theory, language use and acquisition are shaped by the specific linguistic and cultural environment in which a person is immersed. For example, children growing up in a bilingual household will be exposed to and acquire both languages naturally. Contextual factors such as the frequency of language exposure, language dominance, and the linguistic demands of the environment play a significant role in determining a person's bilingual proficiency.
2. Experiential Theory: The experiential theory emphasizes the role of personal experiences and interactions in bilingualism. This theory suggests that language proficiency and use are influenced by the individual's unique experiences and exposure to different languages in various contexts. For instance, individuals may develop different levels of bilingualism based on factors such as education, travel, and the use of multiple languages in social settings. The experiential theory highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of bilingualism, as it takes into account the individual's multidimensional experiences with language.
3. Componential Theory: The componential theory focuses on the underlying cognitive processes and linguistic components involved in bilingualism. It suggests that bilingual individuals have separate language systems that coexist and interact with each other. According to this theory, bilingualism is not simply the additive accumulation of two independent languages but involves complex cognitive mechanisms that allow for language selection, inhibition, and switching. The componential theory examines the various linguistic components, such as phonology, syntax, and semantics, that may differ or overlap between languages and how they are processed and organized in bilingual individuals' minds.
Overall, these sub theories of bilingualism provide different perspectives on the factors that influence bilingual language acquisition and use, including the social context, personal experiences, and cognitive mechanisms involved.