Istanbul Gelisim University Faculty of Applied Sciences: Monthly e-Bulletin (August 2024)

Expert Insights: Anyone Can Learn a Foreign Language with the Right Conditions! We've all heard people say, "No matter what I do, I just can't learn English." Addressing the challenges of language learning, Translator and Research Assistant Serhat Kahyaoğlu explains, “With patience, perseverance, determination, and motivation, anyone can learn a foreign language, regardless of age.” While Kahyaoğlu, an academic member of the Department of Translation and Interpreting Studies at IGU, partially agrees with the common belief that "there is no age limit for learning a language," he emphasizes, “Early education is generally more effective and efficient than starting in adulthood. Researchers in foreign language education particularly highlight the pre-adolescent period. Studies have shown that our minds are more receptive to language learning at a younger age. Beyond this natural predisposition, early learning habits can significantly aid in mastering multiple languages later in life. Given the increasing responsibilities and time constraints in adulthood, starting language learning early is undeniably advantageous.”