Who is credited with the development of the Cognitive model of language acquisition?

The Cognitive model of language acquisition is primarily associated with Jean Piaget, who emphasized the role of cognitive development in the process of learning language. Piaget proposed that language acquisition is closely linked to a child's overall cognitive development and that children must develop certain cognitive abilities before they can fully grasp linguistic concepts. According to Piaget, children learn through active engagement with their environment and construct knowledge through processes of assimilation and accommodation, which are key elements of his theory of cognitive development.

Piaget's ideas differ significantly from behaviorist theories, which focus on external stimuli and reinforcement, and from social interactionist perspectives, which highlight the role of social context and interaction in language development. His model places a strong emphasis on the internal mental processes that underpin language learning, making him a central figure in cognitive theories of language acquisition.