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Alan Hezao Ke, Computational Modeling of Syntactic Operations and the Acquisition of Parametric Variation
February 16 @ 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Abstract: This talk explores computational approaches within the context of three factors in language design: core syntactic operations (linguistic principles), the role of linguistic input (in
parameter acquisition), and a third factor regarding computational constraints on the mind (Chomsky, 2005). The first part of the talk integrates a third factor search algorithm, Minimal
Search, with two core syntactic operations—Agree and Labeling—and shows empirical and theoretical implications of Minimal Search-based Agree and Labeling, which are considered
universal principles of language. The second part proposes an input-driven computational model of parameter learning that successfully tackles a fundamental hurdle in working with
linguistic input. This model generates concrete, testable predictions regarding the learning order
of parametric variation.