Research Briefs

Sharing research both within and beyond the ACTFL community

These short pieces report what the research shows about key topics, like the importance of early world language study, the impact of world language study on cognitive or academic outcomes, and more.

Written for educators, administrators, policymakers, and community members, the ACTFL Research Briefs focus on world (non-English) language education in the United States. They address the questions that we are commonly asked about language teaching and learning. They center on questions that can be answered by research that has already been conducted in the field.

Current Briefs

All ACTFL Research Briefs are publicly available here, and some may also be featured in ACTFL publications Foreign Language Annals and The Language Educator. New briefs will be published periodically throughout the year.

If you are interested in writing or reviewing for the ACTFL Research Briefs, please contact the ACTFL Research Briefs Task Force co-chairs Pam Wesely or Meg Malone.

The Impact of Early Language Learning
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Early language study has positive impacts both in the language classroom and beyond.
Research Findings
Advanced Language Proficiency
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Developing advanced proficiency in a second language benefits both learners and society.
Research Findings
Proficiency levels for K-16 world language learners
What proficiency levels do K-16 world language learners achieve?
Research Findings
Academic Benefits of World Language Study
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Language study has been correlated with a variety of academic benefits for learners.
Research Findings