What is the Difference Between Learning and Acquisition?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between learning and acquisition lies in the consciousness and deliberateness of the processes.

Learning:

  • Conscious and deliberate process
  • Involves formal instruction and conscious comprehension
  • Focuses on grammar rules and form
  • Common in second language learning

Acquisition:

  • Subconscious and non-conscious process
  • Occurs through natural exposure and interaction
  • Focuses on meaning and communication
  • Common in first language learning

In summary, learning is a more deliberate and conscious process, often involving formal instruction and a focus on grammar rules. Acquisition, on the other hand, is a subconscious and natural process that occurs through exposure and interaction in meaningful communication. While both learning and acquisition can contribute to language proficiency, acquisition is considered more efficient and effective in language learning.

Comparative Table: Learning vs Acquisition

The main difference between learning and acquisition is that learning is a more conscious and deliberate process, while acquisition is more subconscious and occurs through exposure and experience. Here is a table comparing the two concepts:

Learning Acquisition
Conscious and deliberate process Non-conscious assimilation of a language, mainly through first-hand exposure
Involves studying through formal instruction and conscious comprehension Occurs through exposure, experience, and use of the language in various contexts
Focuses on the form of the language Emphasizes accuracy and automaticity with the target skill
Both learning and acquisition facilitate the learner to become fluent in a language Both learning and acquisition involve the four skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking

In summary, learning is a more deliberate and conscious process that involves studying a language through formal instruction, while acquisition is a non-conscious process that occurs through exposure, experience, and use of the language. Both learning and acquisition contribute to the development of language skills and fluency.