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Is there a "disability" for learning a foreign language?

Richard L Sparks1

  • 1College of Mt. St. Joseph, Cincinnati, OH 45233, USA. richard_sparks@mail.msj.edu

Journal of Learning Disabilities
|December 15, 2006
PubMed
Summary
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There is no distinct foreign language learning disability (FLLD). Research shows FLLD is problematic, with language learning difficulties existing on a continuum, not as a separate disability.

Area of Science:

  • Linguistics
  • Psychology
  • Education

Background:

  • The concept of a distinct foreign language learning disability (FLLD) has emerged in academic literature.
  • Despite its introduction, no empirical evidence supports FLLD as a unique disability.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically evaluate the concept of a distinct foreign language learning disability (FLLD).
  • To argue against the existence of FLLD based on existing research and definitional issues.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing research on learning disabilities (LD) and foreign language (FL) acquisition.
  • Analysis of the definition and diagnostic criteria for LD and proposed FLLD.
  • Examination of the continuum of language learning abilities and the concept of FL aptitude.

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Main Results:

  • The definition and diagnostic criteria for FLLD are problematic and lack empirical validity.
  • Foreign language learning difficulties exist on a continuum, not as a discrete disability.
  • The concept of foreign language aptitude is often misused by FLLD proponents.

Conclusions:

  • The proposed concept of a distinct foreign language learning disability (FLLD) is not supported by empirical evidence.
  • FL learning challenges should be understood as part of a spectrum of language learning abilities.
  • Further research and clear definitions are needed to address foreign language learning difficulties effectively.