How important is language learning aptitude?
David H. Broersma
There are few learning
tasks where differences in aptitude become as pronounced as in
the task of learning a second language. Often, teammates
or spouses who are learning the same language will notice that
while one seems to make exceptionally quick progress, another
will struggle every step of the way. Thus, differences in aptitude
are important, but these differences are not the end of the story.
Each language learner has a unique profile of basic aptitudes,
learning styles, personality preferences, and attitudes, and all
of these factors together will also influence ultimate success.
The key to making the most of the job is to "know thyself." Self-awareness
is a critically important part of the process because if you are
aware of your strengths as a language learner, you can play to
your strengths and help compensate for your weaknesses. For example,
if you know that you are a "visual learner," and you know that
you can't remember new vocabulary without writing it down, you
can get in the habit of carrying a small notebook with you and
explaining to people that when you want to learn something you
need to write it in your notebook. Or, if you prefer to work alone,
and you find it draining to be in crowds of people, you may need
to organize time together with individuals to practice your language
in one-on-one situations. Otherwise, because you find it overwhelming
to be with a lot of people, you may end up not having any interaction
and language practice at all.
Good language aptitude is a wonderful gift, but it is not everything.
In order to make the most of the aptitude we do have, we need
to learn to identify our strengths and weaknesses and develop
the strengths while compensating for the weaknesses.
For more information, see the following:
ICCT FAQ: "Is the Modern
Language Aptitude Test (MLAT) a good predictor of language learning
success?"
ERIC Digest: "Language
Aptitude Reconsidered"
ERIC Digest: "The
Role of Styles and Strategies in Second Language Learning"
© David H. Broersma, Ph.D.
Associate Director and Second Language Acquisition Coordinator
Institute for Cross-Cultural Training (ICCT)
Wheaton College, Wheaton, IL 60187
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