We are aware that Language and Communication skills stretch beyond simple words, phrases and a handshake. Also, we explored some research in the field of speech communication that focused on some issues.
Nature vs. Nurture : Language and Communication ability is innate at birth; it is shared from a baby’s first cry, to a parent’s hugs and “oooohhs and ahs.” If a child is denied social experience with others, can communication skills be developed in children beyond the childhood years?
After viewing the research documentary, The Wild Child (Nova 2006), discuss the research on Genie, Victor or both. Who benefitted from the research and how? Did the children (Genie and Victor) gain anything from these studies? What about the psychologists who were involved?
· Why would a project like this be referred to a Forbidden Experiment?
· What did you think was the motivation for the Researchers?
· Why was the research stopped in each case? How did you perceive the reasoning of the researchers?
· What were the final results for Genie and/or Victor? Was this is the best possible scenario for either of them? What would have been better?
· This documentary provided much troubling information. What did you find most disturbing?
Because of the many factors involved for this topic, I will permit longer responses, if you wish. Please keep your responses between 75-200 words.
