Interaction Model Promoting Language Development through Japanese Word Play

A Study using a Cognitive Architecture

Abstract

Children usually acquire language through interactions with others. Some researches have focused on Shiritori game, which is a popular Japanese word play, as a means of fostering language acquisition. In this research, in order to examine how the interactions with others contribute learning of languages, we constructed a model in which two agents interactively execute Shiritori game by using the cognitive architecture ACT-R. From the results of the simulation experiment, it can be seen that as the Shiritori game progresses, the similarity of knowledge structures between the two agents is increasing. In the future, by improving the model, we will closely investigate the change of knowledge through the interactive process of Shiritori game, aiming to develop a supporting method for children who have difficulties of language acquisition.