Why is learning a language important?
Did you know that over a third of the UK population is bilingual (36% or 24.5 million people)? Worldwide, this number climbs to 43%: that’s 3.3 billion people who can speak multiple languages fluently!
Some will have learnt their second language from a very young age, growing up with parents from different countries. Others may have moved abroad in later life and acquired a new language simply through exposure — no formal education is necessary!
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to language learning. With daily practice and the right resources, you may be able to improve your fluency from the comfort of your home. But why is learning a language important?
Why learn a second language?
Having an interest in language learning is enough explanation. If you’re someone who feels fascinated by words (lexis), their rules (grammar) and how they fit together (syntax), language acquisition may already be one of your hobbies.
Some may need to learn because of geographical circumstances. For example, students enrolled in a study abroad program may want to get the basics down before jetting off.
Equally, you could be living in an area where multiple languages are spoken in very close proximity. Canada, for example (a country many perceive as predominantly English-speaking), has 10 million Francophone citizens.
So, if you were to move to the province of Quebec without the faintest understanding of French, be prepared for a shock!
What are the benefits of learning a second language?
You don’t need to reach native-speaker level to reap the benefits of language learning. In fact, you may notice an immediate improvement in cognitive performance as soon as you start putting attention and memory to practice.
1. Boosts memory
A study conducted in 2020 focused on the impact of second and third-language learning on students' working memory. The participants were young adults of Chinese origin who were enrolled in various language-learning courses, including English, Japanese and Russian.
To learn more about the positive benefits on working memory, the researchers tested the participant’s ability to remember vocabulary and sound patterns in a short amount of time.
Following the first test, the participants were asked to return 9 months later to repeat it. The results revealed that learning one or potentially two foreign languages at the same time can have positive effects on our everyday memory.
2. Improves attention span
Attention plays a big role in our ability to retain information, and several mechanisms are responsible for aspects of learning, including the accuracy, fluency, and complexity of language use.
Researchers call this the ‘Noticing Hypothesis’, which suggests that a deliberate focus on linguistic elements is needed to convert input into intake. It’s believed that making this effort on a regular basis could strengthen the learner's overall attentional capabilities.
3. Greater career options
Being proficient in multiple languages can broaden your career opportunities! In the UK, employers highly value candidates who can communicate in more than one language, as it means you can interact with international clients and markets.
Interestingly, a 2021 survey by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) highlighted that foreign language skills provided a competitive advantage for jobseekers.
How can I learn a second language?
There are many ways to learn a language, but the top three methods include:
School
In England, the National Curriculum mandates that pupils between the ages of 7 and 14 study at least one foreign language. Common languages offered include French, Spanish, and German.
For older students, pursuing language studies at A-level can deepen this understanding (which then gives you the opportunity to study a language degree at university!)
Real-life exposure
Some researchers believe that immersing yourself in environments where the target language is spoken can intensify learning.
Learners may be able to acquire more of a language's cultural nuances through practical applications, such as talking and listening to native speakers.
Online courses
Not everyone has the same opportunities. You may not have enjoyed the same educational background or be able to travel the world. But this shouldn’t discourage you from learning a second language!
As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of self-study distance learning courses, we want to help you grow. Distance Learning Centre offers a range of language qualifications that you can complete at your own pace, including:
Now is the perfect time to invest in your future. With Distance Learning Centre, you can achieve your goals without putting your life on hold!
