Inlärning—en sällsynt företeelse

Abstract

Heimann, M. (1992). Learning—A rare event. Nordisk Psykologi, 44, 203–211.

Children tend do learn at different rates and they also differ as regards the amount of necessary input. The article presents and discusses some factors that are central to understanding why or why not learning takes place. This is done within the framework of a theory called the Rare Event Learning Mechanism (see: Nelson, 1991). Mechanisms in focus incorporate motivational, attentional, and cognitive aspects. These factors are presented in some detail as is some empirical evidence showing that limited but focused input can provide the child with enough exemplars to learn new language structures. These data are incorporated with the theory of Rare Events and some necessary and facilitating factors for language learning are listed. It is concluded that the theory might help us in organizing rewarding and motivational learning opportunities for children learning language, and also that it is essential to view the learning process within a cognitive, social, motivational, and emotional context.