A Computer Model of Language Acquisition – Syllable Learning – Based on Hebbian Cell Assemblies and Reinforcement Learning

Investigating language acquisition is one of the most challenging problems in the area of studying language. Syllable learning as a level of language acquisition has a considerable significance since it plays an important role in language acquisition. Because of impossibility of studying language acquisition directly with children, especially in its developmental phases, computer models will be useful in examining language acquisition. In this paper a computer model of early language learning for syllable learning is proposed. It is guided by a conceptual model of syllable learning which is named Directions Into Velocities of Articulators model (DIVA). The computer model uses simple associational and reinforcement learning rules within neural network architecture which are inspired by neuroscience. Our simulation results verify the ability of the proposed computer model in producing phonemes during babbling and early speech. Also, it provides a framework for examining the neural basis of language learning and communication disorders.

Authors:

• Sepideh Fazeli
• Fariba Bahrami

Keywords:

• Brain modeling
• computer models
• language acquisition
• reinforcement learning.

References:

[1] H. Markert, A. Knoblauch, and G. Palm, "Modelling of syntactical
processing in the cortex," J. BioSystems, vol. 89, 2007, pp. 300-315.
[2] P. J. Buttery, "Computational models for first language acquisition,"
Computer Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Tech. Rep. UCAM-CLTR-
675, Nov. 2006.
[3] M. T. Ullman, "Contributions of memory circuits to language: the
declarative/procedural model," J. Cognition, vol. 92, 2004, pp. 231-270.
[4] A. Portoa, A. Araqueb, J. Rabunal, J. Dorado, and A. Pazos, "A new
hybrid evolutionary mechanism based on unsupervised learning for
Connectionist Systems," J. Neurocomputing, vol. 70, 2007, pp. 2799-
2808.
[5] T. Wennekers, M. Garagnani, and F. Pulvermuller, "Language models
based on Hebbian cell assemblies," J. Physiology, vol. 100, 2006, pp.
16-30.
[6] F. H. Guenther, "Cortical interactions underlying the production of
speech sounds," J. Communication Disorders, vol. 39, 2006, pp. 350-
365.
[7] F. H. Guenther, "Neural modeling of speech production," in Proc. 4th
Int. Nijmegen Speech Motor Conf., Nijmegen, Netherland, June 13-16,
2001.
[8] T. W. Troyer, and A. J. Doupe, "An associational model of birdsong
sensorimotor learning. I. efference copy and the learning of song
syllables," J. Neurophysiol, vol. 84, 2000, pp. 1204-1223.
[9] F. H. Guenther, and S. S. Ghosh, "A model of cortical and cerebellar
function in speech", in Proc. of the XVth Int. Cong. of Phonetic Science,
Barcelona, Spain, 2003.