Ostensive inferential communication: A review of its effects and developmental roles in children’s word learning

Abstract

Ostensive inferential communication is a form of interaction wherein a speaker’s communicative intention is effectively conveyed through various cues directed towards the listener, such as eye gaze, pointing gestures, and utterances. This review examines studies exploring the effects and roles of ostensive inferential communication in children’s word learning. The argument is made that this mode of communication serves as a foundational element of language development. Infants exhibit sensitivity to adults’ ostensive cues from an early age, utilizing pointing gestures for communicative purposes from infancy. Their acquisition of word meanings is rooted in inferencing the speaker’s referential intention across different situations, even when words and objects lack direct associations. Furthermore, infants acquire both object labels and part labels, with a particular emphasis on the importance of subtle ostensive pointing. The article concludes by addressing unresolved issues and suggesting future research directions.