Field Journal
4.07 Project Milestone
4.01 Language Acquisition
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Acquiring language focuses on the innate ability of learning language. This ability has been found to result from the development of brain structures. Linguist Noam Chomsky identified this fact, and that the brain determines the path/process of language development. We know this because children attain the same developmental milestones at around the same age. It's interesting to see language divided into milestone, such as understanding basic questions from 1-2 years of age. I see these milestones both in my nieces and nephews and the children I baby-sit. If I ever met a new child, I might even be able to guess their age based on their stage of language development. We develop language based on six functions, identified by linguist Roman Jakobson: referential, emotive, conative, phatic, metalingual, and poetic. All uses of language today can be traced back to these six.
4.03 Decision Making
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Decision making is actually part of problem solving, which is the process we use to conquer a dilemma. John Dewey is perhaps the most recognized name in problem solving- he proposed the method of using reflective thinking in order to come to the conclusion of various problems. His intricate action plan can be used by virtually anyone facing a dilemma, and it presents a healthy, whole way to eliminate a problem. Dewey's plan focuses on defining and analyzing the problem, identifying and evaluating solutions, selecting the best solution, developing an action plan, and finally implementing the solution. If there was truly a problem I couldn't solve or a decision I could not make, I would use Dewey's action plan to come to the best conclusion. Most people can decide things on their own, but Dewey's plan simplifies the thinking that leads to a successful solution. When a problem is stressful or threatening, people can't always think at their best. Therefore, it's important to study decision making so I and others know how to progress when faced with difficulties.
4.05 Stress
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To begin with, stress isn't merely a state of mind but a psychophysiological experience; meaning, stress is felt both in the body and mind. The stress response leads to what researchers call "flight or flight," ultimately an instinct meant to protect us from danger. The only problem is that homework, due dates, and office conferences are not life threatening, but the human body thinks they are. Distress in response to these situations can be dangerous if it continues over time (chronic stress), leading to heart disease, sleep disorder, weight gain and loss, weakened immune system, and varying levels of depression.Most stress is due to relationships, jobs and school, expectations, family, and society. These stressors can also cause eustress which, in brief amounts, can be beneficial. Eustress is generally motivational and good, such as excitement. Our perception of stress can be stated with a personality type: A or B. I have a type A personality, meaning I am more susceptible to stress and have a more competitive mindset than a type B. It's important to understand stress so we can better function with it in our lives, and keep from experiencing too much distress over time.