According to the naturalistic theory of language learning, how do language skills develop?

The naturalistic theory of language learning posits that language skills develop through a natural process, emphasizing the significance of social interactions and contextual use of language in real-life situations. This approach suggests that learners acquire language similarly to how they learned their first language, absorbing linguistic nuances, vocabulary, and grammar through engagement with speakers rather than formal instruction.

In this context, social interactions provide opportunities for meaningful communication, which reinforces language acquisition and helps learners understand how language operates within cultural and situational frameworks. This theory highlights that language is best learned in a dynamic environment filled with conversational practice, rather than through isolated memorization or formalized classroom structures.

By focusing on natural progression and the interplay between learners and their community, the naturalistic theory champions experiential learning as crucial to developing language skills effectively.