Benefits of Learning Languages
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Benefits of Learning Languages
The human brain produces language by first learning the melody of a language. Learning the cadence and tonality is the very first step that even babies take in language development by listening to other people speaking.
When we are babies, we know how to say some words for certain objects without knowing how to write them.
The best thing is to listen to, and become familiar with, the sound of the new language that we want to learn, then write down the sounds that we hear and that seem familiar to us. Doing exercises listening and writing down what we think we hear is usually quite effective and useful.
Once you feel comfortable with the audio and a bit of text, you can begin to develop a deeper understanding of some dialogues; a good tool is to translate them into your native language, so that your brain associates the words with your own language.
There are many effective methods for learning new languages, either by yourself or in school, but what are the benefits of learning another language?
Feed Your Brain
The many cognitive benefits of learning languages are undeniable. People who speak more than one language have improved memory, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, enhanced concentration, ability to multitask, and better listening skills. They switch between competing tasks and notice changes in their environment more readily than monolinguals, as well as display signs of greater creativity and flexibility. IN addition to these benefits, being bilingual or multilingual also helps to stave off mental aging and cognitive decline as we age.
Deepen Your Connection to Other Cultures
Language is the most direct route for connection to other cultures. Being able to communicate in another language exposes us to, and fosters an appreciation for, the traditions, religions, arts, and history of the people associated with that language. Greater understanding, in turn, promotes greater tolerance, empathy, and acceptance of others—with studies showing that children who have studied another language are more open toward and express more favorable attitudes toward the culture associated with that language.
Gain Perspective
As we explore a new language and culture, we naturally draw comparisons with what is most familiar. Learning about another culture sheds light on aspects of our own culture—both positive and negative—that we may not have previously been aware of. You may find a greater appreciation for what you have, or you may decide to shake things up!
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Go to the Source
In a world with more than 6,000 spoken languages, we sometimes require translation, but speaking at least one additional language empowers us to access information that would otherwise be off-limits. For example, individuals proficient in other languages are able to navigate the Internet as genuine global citizens—consuming and assessing foreign media and entertainment.
Advance Your Career
Language skills can be a significant competitive advantage that sets you apart from your monolingual peers. They are among the top eight skills required in all occupations—no matter your sector or skill level—and the demand for bilingual professionals is rising exponentially. In fact, between 2010 and 2015, the number of U.S. job postings specifically geared toward bilingual candidates more than doubled. Employers are seeking professionals who can communicate seamlessly with customers in new and expanding overseas markets, as well as serve and sell to a large foreign-born population here at home. With more than 60 million U.S. residents who speak a language other than English at home, you don’t need to get on a plane to put your language skills to work. As an added incentive, in many instances, language skills also lead to hiring bonuses and increased salaries. Whatever your career aspirations—you’re ahead of the crowd with language skills added to the mix!
Conclusion
Learning new things is great for yourself, and helps you to never lose the ability of surprising yourself, and if you learn another language, you can embrace other cultures and know more about our world.
References
New American Economy, Not Lost in Translation: The Growing Importance of Foreign Language Skills in the U.S. Job Market, New American Economy, Washington, DC, p.2 (2017) URL: https://research.newamericaneconomy.org/report/not-lost-in-translation-the-growing-importance-of-foreign-language-skills-in-the-u-s-job-market/
U.S. Census 2009-2013 American Community Survey, Detailed Languages Spoken at Home and Ability to Speak English for the Population 5 Years and Over: 2009-2013,