Learning a second language is a challenging but rewarding endeavour that can lead to multiple benefits for young people. Competency in a second language provides a plethora of opportunities for interaction and engagement with others in an increasingly interconnected world. It builds the platform for a more immersive travel experience and a richer understanding of a different culture and environment. With our borders reopening, now is the perfect time to encourage your students to engage in a second language. There are sometimes even opportunities to practice language skills closer to home!
1. Learning a second language boosts cognitive development in young people
There has been considerable research into the impact that learning a second language can have on our abilities. This research highlights a wide range of advantages across a number of areas, one specific area being that of cognitive development in young people.
The evidence garnered from this research has highlighted that learning a language leads to improved verbal and spatial abilities, as well as improved memory function and increased academic achievement.
Furthermore, learning a second language assists students to develop a stronger understanding of the construction of language and language rules that can be applied to both second and mother languages. The development of these skills means that students not only experience improvements in their understanding of language, but are also more likely to experience improvements across multiple subject areas.
Learning a second language is also a valuable boost for senior school certificates such as the VCE, HSC and IB. Language courses are often scaled up or awarded extra credit in senior school courses, with universities also highly valuing students who demonstrate understanding of a second language. Immersive experiences, such educational tours support students in development of language skills critical for assessments and overall cognitive development, as well as allowing students to gain better insight into practical application of the language. Actively engaging with native speakers of the language allows students to apply their skills and refine their communication techniques, further boosting their skills and understanding. For example, the Educational Journeys French Language Tour of Sydney gives students the opportunity to experience the French Language in a range of familiar contexts, such as cultural tours and cooking experiences.
2. Learning a second language allows students to engage with different cultures
Learning a second language is an exciting opportunity to engage with a broader range of people and learn about a wide range of perspectives and experiences. Through a greater understanding of a second language, students can consider the world from an alternative perspective and actively practice key communication skills. Furthermore, students have a deeper understanding of their experience when key elements are not lost in translation.
Having a stronger understanding of another culture or group provides a stronger foundation for building empathy. When we can fully understand the person we are interacting with we can better understand their circumstances and experiences and learn from them. Furthermore, we can better understand the emotional and personal connections that others have to places, experiences and events.
Knowledge of a second language supports students in making stronger intercultural connections and provides a platform for better engagement due to a stronger understanding of the language, leading to the formation of a clearer understanding of cultural practices and beliefs. Students with knowledge of a second language are able to gain access to a far wider range of cultural artefacts, such as texts, songs and art forms, that can assist them in developing their cultural understanding and further immersion into cultures.
3. Communication skills
The enhanced communication skills that are developed through learning a second language have a range of positive benefits. First and foremost, understanding of a second language leads to better communication with others and heightens skills in collaborative work, team activities and networking opportunities. Through their experience in navigating their second language, students become proficient in using a range of methodologies to communicate and problem solve when hitting roadblocks in interactions with others. These skills can then be applied to a number of circumstances in a range of social and cultural settings.
Another key communication skill that benefits from learning a second language is listening. Listening skills can be improved by challenging oneself to carefully listen to the nuances of another language in order to ensure full and proper comprehension. This practice encourages students to note tone, intonation and inflection in order to create a deeper understanding of the message being communicated. The development of these listening skills then leads to more flexible individuals who are willing to persevere when communicating with others.
Through the development of these strong listening skills students become stronger communicators who are better placed to be able to engage in meaningful interactions with a range of individuals in varied settings across the world. It also provides a powerful avenue for gaining knowledge, with students being able to actively engage in a broader range of activities and have deeper, more valuable learning experiences.
4. Learning a second language leads to unique career options
Fluency in a second language can provide a range of job opportunities and demonstrate high level cultural awareness. It demonstrates a willingness to take on challenges and can be a unique or standout quality for candidates when applying for work, particularly in industries with globalised workforces and structures.
The link between second language and improved career outcomes has been well supported by research. A report from the OECD that was supported by PISA data has indicated that students that speak a second language are more likely to have a range of job opportunities and that additionally they are more likely to be promoted into roles with higher paying salaries. Additionally, the research found that in some parts of the world individuals who spoke more than one language were more likely to be hired for positions than those who spoke only one language.
Knowledge of a second language can also lead to greater opportunities to engage in travel, including study abroad tours or placements or internships. These diverse learning experiences can further build cognitive capacity, intercultural awareness and communication skills and bolster transferable skills. Furthermore, these experiences also allow for multiple networking opportunities, which in turn open the door to a range of possible career opportunities for young people.
Looking for an amazing immersive language experience for your students? Head to the Educational Journey’s program page to learn more about our student tours!