https://sphere.acg.edu/jspui/handle/123456789/2353 Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:18:51 GMT 2026-04-17T09:18:51Z https://sphere.acg.edu/jspui/handle/123456789/2416 Title: Universal grammar, Turing and restricted Boltzmann machines: A hypothesis on the existence of halting problem in universal grammar Authors: Gaga, Athina Abstract: A combined Turing - Boltzmann machine is theoretically suggested as a computational model able to simulate language acquisition. The study hypothesizes a machine able to acquire language as a child does, combining both nativists (i.e., biological based) and connectionists (i.e., experience depended) learning models. Universal Grammar (UG) is a theory in linguistics, introduced by Noam Chomsky major representative of nativists, suggesting that the capacity to learn grammar is hard-wired into the brain. On the other hand, for connectionists the mind is demonstrated as a network of nodes and associations between those nodes and is described as a human input - output system. The present study recommends a Turing machine as the simulation of the brain's innate linguistic function (UG) in conjunction with a Boltzmann machine as the simulation of the connectionists probabilistic model. Following this combined model, the study perceives the halting problem in Turing machines as the major problem that may occur in the functioning of the UG. The halting problem is hypothesized that leads to a dysfunctional UG. Halting could be used to simulate malfunctions in language acquisition, and possibly inability to speak in mute low functioning autism. Sun, 01 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT https://sphere.acg.edu/jspui/handle/123456789/2416 2017-01-01T00:00:00Z https://sphere.acg.edu/jspui/handle/123456789/2396 Title: The development of morphological awareness and its contribution to emergent literacy of Greek-speaking children Authors: Benaki, Argyro Abstract: Early linguistic development is considered fundamental for successful reading and spelling acquisition. Research so far demonstrates the central role of phonological awareness in early literacy experiences. In many languages through, some aspects of the spelling system require the contribution of the morphological awareness, since the understanding of the word’s morphological structure is essential for reading comprehension, spelling and syntax. Evidence in Greek and other orthographies underline the role of morphological awareness, even before attending first grade. For the present thesis two studies were conducted. The first study examines the morphological awareness level and morphemic component awareness of 237 Greek speaking children who attend pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grade. The second study examines the contribution of morphological awareness to emergent literacy skills by assessing 59 Greek speaking children (4.0-5.0 years old) in a test battery. Fri, 01 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT https://sphere.acg.edu/jspui/handle/123456789/2396 2016-01-01T00:00:00Z