Having the ability to speak multiple languages is an asset in the workplace and the community. Fluency in two or more languages expands one's career opportunities, especially in fields such as government and technology. Bilingual employees are in a prime position to accept assignments that require international travel or communicating with colleagues in other countries. Speaking more than one language also encourages people to explore other cultures and connect with those whose backgrounds differ from their own.
The Importance of Learning Languages as Children
While it's possible to learn a foreign language as an adult, acquiring this skill in childhood offers some distinct advantages. Children are wired to easily pick up multiple languages, and can usually do so more readily than the average adult. Learning languages at an early age cultivates children's natural curiosity and creativity, setting them up for high academic achievement and lifelong success.
Benefits of Learning Multiple Languages
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Multicultural perspective. Research shows that students who learn a second language are more open-minded toward other cultures while having a greater appreciation of their own culture. Learning a foreign language can increase their awareness of cultural differences, but it also allows students to understand and respect those differences.
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Adaptability. Students who learn a foreign language tend to be more accepting of different viewpoints. They can readily consider issues from others' perspectives and are more flexible in response to change.
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Multitasking. Children's ability to seamlessly switch between languages translates to better multitasking skills, which are especially beneficial in today's fast-paced world.
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Memory. Learning the rules of another language challenges the brain, improving overall memory. Bilingual people have a heightened ability to memorise lists or sequences. In research studies, they demonstrated a superior ability to recall names, directions and the like.
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Information-processing. According to research conducted at the University of Pompeu Fabra in Spain, multilingual people are more observant of their surroundings and have an exceptional ability to focus on relevant information while overlooking what isn't important. They also more readily recognise misleading information. Those who study a foreign language outperform their monolingual peers on standardised tests and exhibit better problem-solving, critical thinking and analytical skills, as they can easily grasp abstract concepts.
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Native language proficiency. Second language-learners tend to pay more attention to the
mechanics of language and thus become more attuned to the structure of their native tongue, too. -
Decision-making. A University of Chicago study showed that those who spoke a second language were more confident in their decision-making than their single-language peers.
All of these benefits equip students to be global citizens and leaders, which is our goal at GIIS SMART Campus. With such a diverse school community, our students are in an optimal position to explore new languages and cultures.
To know more about GIIS SMART Campus and its excellent educational offerings, click here.
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