Vocal learning

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Vocal Learning

1. Definition:

„Vocal learning, as we discuss it here, refers only to learning sounds, that is, to instances where the vocalizations themselves are modified in form as a result of experience with those of other individuals“ (Janik 1997, 59)

Vocal Learning is not:

   *

     auditory learning, but auditory learning is a condition for vocal learning
   *

     contextual learning, e.g., learning how and when to use specific sounds
   *

     vocal learning is not synonymous to speech but it is a condition for speech

2. Degrees of Vocal Learning:

  1.

     control over the duration and amplitude of a call
  2.

     control over frequency features
  3.

     ability to imitate completely new sounds / vocalizations

(Janik 1997, 60, 71, 75, 86)

3. Reasons why Vocal Learning evolved / persisted in Mammals:

  1.

     Intersexual Selection
  2.

     Intrasexual Selection and Resource Defense
  3.

     Individual Recognition
  4.

     Familial or Group Recognition
  5.

     Population Identity
  6.

     Intense Speciation
  7.

     Habitat Matching

> 5.-7. are rather unlikely

(Janik 1997)

A common factor among vocal learning species is their high mobility three-dimensional space (Janik 1997, 87)

In humans, language possibly developed in gestures first. When Vocal Learning evolved after that it was a great advantage to use vocalizations instead of gestures so that Vocal Learning could persist (Janik 1997, 88).

4. Motor Theory of the Origin of Vocal Learning:

Caused by mutation, the pathway for Vocal Learning developed out of a pre-existing non-vocal motor pathway. (Jarvis 2007, S42)

5. FoxP2

FoxP2 belongs to a large transcription factor gene family and acts as a suppressor of transcription.

“FoxP2 may be important for establishing and maintaining brain pathways including, but not limited to, those essential for learned vocal communication” (Haesler et al. 2004, 3174)