COGNITIVE LOAD AND MULTITASKING IN POLYGLOTS: HOW DO MULTILINGUALS PROCESS MULTIPLE LANGUAGES SIMULTANEOUSLY?

Polyglots, who speak multiple languages fluently, frequently switch between languages in different contexts. This study explores how polyglots manage cognitive load when multitasking and whether their ability to switch languages affects their executive function. The study uses cognitive load theory and executive function research to examine how polyglots allocate mental resources while juggling multiple linguistic systems. Through experiments involving dual-task performance tests, brain imaging (EEG or fMRI), and self-assessment surveys, this research aims to determine whether polyglots have an advantage in multitasking compared to monolinguals and bilinguals. The findings could contribute to a deeper understanding of multilingual cognition and have implications for language learning and artificial intelligence.