Exposure to a second language affords learners the opportunity to understand the world through a different lens and experience language acquisition in a cognitive way. As children, we learn languages quickly and have no memory of what it was like to be frustrated by our inability to communicate our needs. Students learning a second language, especially in an immersive setting, go through a similar acquisitional process as they did when they were infants but now have the ability to cognitively address their frustrations. Such an understanding helps our students develop a new perspective and better relate to others who may be learning English as a second language. As teachers, we hope that this experience creates more empathetic students.
As second language students learn to navigate their target language and engage in circumlocution to communicate with others, they enhance their communication skills. Learning to listen for essential information and synthesize how the information is useful or important is an important and transferable skill. Students who learn to efficiently articulate their own perspectives and communicate effectively are better communicators.
Boosting students’ cognitive abilities is another benefit to language study. When learners are engaged in communicative tasks, they are developing their problem-solving skills and stretching their creativity. Many in-class activities engage students in contextualized and authentic language opportunities requiring them to think critically and respond creatively. This benefits students not only in an academic setting but also in their personal interests.
Multilingual workers are highly sought by employers. Achieving proficiency in a second language adds value and increases professional opportunities. The findings of the PSMLA Task Force have shown us that there is a great need for employees who are not only proficient in languages other than English, but who also demonstrate a flexibility to engage with other cultures. The study of other cultures and languages develops global citizens and fosters a desire and ability to participate in a global community.
The value of learning languages goes beyond just the job market; it can also help to achieve personal satisfaction and even help us discover something about ourselves as we step outside our comfort zone. There is a joy that comes with learning to communicate effectively with other groups of people and participate in their culture with them. Whether by communicating with customers or clients in a job, speaking with an ELL at a lunch table, or traveling abroad, students feel fulfilled when they recognize their ability to communicate with others in their native tongue. Language is a key that opens multiple doors. As educators, we often never know how forging that key with our students, through dedication and hard work, has reshaped our world
