Language learning as a unique talent: Polyglot perceptions

Abstract

The axiomatic differences in language learner outcomes have fueled a growing amount of research into foreign language aptitude. Despite growing interest in individual differences between language learners, there remains a paucity of research on the perceptions of ostensibly successful language learners. Contrary to the maligned fortunes of language learners, that have prompted commissioned bodies to be tasked with finding possible solutions, the polyglot community continues to thrive and share stories of success at international polyglot gatherings. This paper uses a mixed methods design to assess the beliefs and perceptions of polyglots vis-à-vis foreign language (FL) learning as a unique talent. A questionnaire utilising a five-point Likert scale was administered to 513 polyglots from 71 countries, and a quantitative analysis of their responses was conducted. This was followed by a qualitative analysis of 13 polyglots’ documents in order to elaborate on the initial findings from the questionnaire. The results indicate that the polyglots are divided on whether successful language learners are born with an aptitude for language learning. Nevertheless, they held that anyone can learn a second language providing other qualities are present. This study provides insight to the psyche of polyglots regarding their learning feats.