Language learning dynamics: Coexistence and selection of grammars

Abstract

Language learning dynamics is modelled by an ensemble of individuals consisting of the grammar carriers and the learners. Increasing the system population size results into the transition from the individual to the collective mode of learning. At low communication level, different grammars coexist in their own survival niches. Enhancement of the communication level in purely collective mode, when all individuals are the part of general communication network, leads to the selection of the fittest grammar. Adding the individual mode of learning results into the formation of the quasigrammar, with the dominant grammar prevailing over the set of coexisting grammars. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2007.