Wednesday, 18 September 2024

Chomsky's Linguistic competence and Hymes' Communicative Competence are two different approaches to language learning...Elaborate.

Chomsky's Linguistic competence and Hymes' Communicative Competence are two different approaches to language learning...Elaborate.

Chomsky's Linguistic Competence and Hymes' Communicative Competence represent two distinct but complementary approaches to understanding language learning.

1. Chomsky’s Linguistic Competence:

Noam Chomsky, in his generative grammar theory, focuses on the cognitive aspects of language. He introduced the concept of linguistic competence, which refers to a speaker’s implicit knowledge of the grammatical rules and structures of a language. This knowledge allows individuals to produce and comprehend sentences that may never have been encountered before. Chomsky believes this innate competence is universal, meaning all humans are born with the ability to learn any language, relying on deep-seated mental structures (Universal Grammar).

Chomsky’s perspective emphasizes:

Syntax and grammar: It focuses on the rules governing sentence structure.

Innateness: Language acquisition is seen as a natural, biological process driven by internal cognitive mechanisms.

Abstract rules: Chomsky is more concerned with the idealized ability to use grammar, independent of actual language use or social context.

In essence, linguistic competence is about the internalized rules of a language that enable individuals to construct and understand sentences correctly.

2. Hymes’ Communicative Competence:

Dell Hymes, in contrast, expanded the view of competence by emphasizing the role of social and cultural factors in language use. His concept of communicative competence includes not only the knowledge of grammatical rules but also the ability to use language appropriately in various social contexts. It is a more functional and practical approach to language learning that highlights how language is used in real-world communication.

Key aspects of Hymes’ view include:

Social appropriateness: Knowing when, where, and how to say things in socially acceptable ways.

Pragmatic skills: This involves understanding the context in which communication occurs, such as the setting, participants, and purpose of interaction.

Four components of communicative competence:

Linguistic competence: Knowledge of grammar and vocabulary (Chomsky's focus).

Sociolinguistic competence: Ability to use language in different social contexts.

Discourse competence: Ability to understand and produce coherent spoken or written language.

Strategic competence: Ability to overcome communication difficulties and to negotiate meaning.

Hymes' approach is holistic, incorporating not only the formal structure of language but also its use in everyday life, considering the social norms, roles, and intentions that influence communication.

Key Differences:

Chomsky’s Linguistic Competence: Focuses on the internalized rules of language and is more theoretical, idealized, and centered on the abstract understanding of grammar and syntax.

Hymes’ Communicative Competence: Is more practical, emphasizing the ability to communicate effectively in real-life situations by considering the social and cultural appropriateness of language use.

In Language Learning:

Chomsky’s model is useful for understanding how humans acquire the structural components of language.

Hymes’ model is crucial for language learners who need to use the language effectively and appropriately in social contexts, making it more applicable in language teaching methodologies such as Communicative Language Teaching (CLT), which prioritizes communication skills over mere grammatical accuracy.

Together, these theories complement each other, with Chomsky offering insights into the cognitive structures underlying language and Hymes focusing on the broader social use of language in real-world settings.










SANJAY NANNAPARAJU

MA English Language & Literature. PG Diploma in Linguistics.
PG Diploma in Teaching of English (EFLU). PG Diploma in
E-Learning (IGNOU) Batch Topper.
Master Trainer - Online English Language Training
PROFESSIONAL ENGLISH PROFICIENCY CERTIFICATION (PEPC)
+91 98484 34615

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