Question
Why is it beneficial to learn different languages?
Answer
Learning different languages offers numerous benefits that extend beyond mere communication. These advantages encompass cognitive, social, and personal development aspects.
Cognitive Benefits
Enhanced Brain Function: Learning a second language can improve brain function, particularly in areas related to memory, attention, and creativity. It can also lead to an increase in brain volume and gray matter, which supports cognitive development (Huang, Loerts and Steinkrauss, 2020; Xie et al., 2023; Zhang, 2022; Anpilohova and Polukhina, 2023; Galovska, 2020).
Improved Working Memory and Language Aptitude: Engaging in language learning can enhance working memory and language aptitude, making it easier to learn additional languages in the future (Huang, Loerts and Steinkrauss, 2020).
Social and Personal Benefits
Broader Communication and Cultural Understanding: Being bilingual or multilingual allows individuals to communicate with a larger number of people, fostering better understanding and empathy across different cultures (Xie et al., 2023; Marchenko, 2024; Nursultankyzy et al., 2024).
Career and Educational Opportunities: Proficiency in multiple languages can open up new career opportunities and support educational advancement, as it is often a valued skill in the global job market (Jasim, 2021; Galovska, 2020).
Personal Development: Learning languages can enrich personal development by enhancing multitasking abilities and providing new perspectives on reality, which can lead to a more harmonious personality (Bakiu and Ziberi, 2024; Anpilohova and Polukhina, 2023).
Psychological and Social Impact
Increased Empathy and Communication Skills: Language learning can improve empathy and communication skills, which are crucial for personal and professional interactions. It encourages individuals to be better listeners and more effective communicators (Nursultankyzy et al., 2024).
Boosted Confidence and Enjoyment: Mastering a new language can boost self-confidence and make everyday activities, such as traveling and socializing, more enjoyable (Jasim, 2021).
Conclusion
Overall, learning different languages is beneficial for cognitive enhancement, personal growth, and social interaction. It not only improves brain function and memory but also broadens cultural understanding and opens up new opportunities in various aspects of life.
References
Huang, T., Loerts, H., & Steinkrauss, R., 2020. The impact of second- and third-language learning on language aptitude and working memory. International Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism, 25, pp. 522 – 538. https://doi.org/10.1080/13670050.2019.1703894
Jasim, Y., 2021. Benefits of Learning A Second Language. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3895362
Xie, X., Zhou, Y., Lu, K., & Privitera, A., 2023. What are the Benefits of Learning a Second Language?. **, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/frym.2023.844499
Marchenko, M., 2024. The Relevance of Learning Foreign Languages in Modern World. Scientific studies and modern education. https://doi.org/10.21661/r-562355
Bakiu, D., & Ziberi, F., 2024. The Psychological Impact of Languages on the Human Mind-Learning Foreign Languages. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science. https://doi.org/10.47772/ijriss.2024.803188s
Nursultankyzy, A., Khan, N., Kassymova, G., Kalimoldayeva, A., & Ketebayeva, E., 2024. Effects of learning languages on volunteering. REID (Research and Evaluation in Education). https://doi.org/10.21831/reid.v10i2.72655
Zhang, C., 2022. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Learning a Second Language Early. Advances in Social Science, Education and Humanities Research. https://doi.org/10.2991/assehr.k.220105.008
Anpilohova, T., & Polukhina, M., 2023. FOREIGN LANGUAGE AS A MEANS OF HARMONIOUS PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT. Formation of Competencies of Gifted Individuals in the System of Extracurricular and Higher Education. https://doi.org/10.18372/2786-823.1.17482
Galovska, E., 2020. BENEFITS OF LEARNING GERMAN AS A SECOND COMPULSORY FOREIGN LANGUAGE IN SCHOOLS. **, 10, pp. 68-71.
M Faust (2011), The Handbook of the Neuropsychology of Language, Vol 12, John Wiley & Sons
