Studies at Northwestern and Houston Universities have proven that people who speak two languages, also called bilinguals, are better at filtering out unnecessary words than monolinguals, who have to work harder to complete the same mental tasks. They also tend to be more open-minded and accepting of cultural differences.
The studies looked at co-activation, or the ability to have both languages active in the brain at the same time, and inhibition, or the ability to select the correct language when hearing both at once. The tests were performed on 17 bilinguals and 18 monolinguals. Each was told a word and shown images. The bilinguals proved to be quicker at identifying the word that is linked to each picture.
So why is this? Is it that bilinguals are experts in two languages or that their brains are better trained for comprehension and brain tasks because they speak multiple languages? It might be a combination.
Ellie Gallagher, fabulous diva and bilingual educator, said that “In addition to critical thinking and problem-solving skills, students in the program are more flexible with a greater sensitivity to cultural differences. The students see the world through multiple lenses fostering open mindedness and acceptance.”
Julie Hooker, queen, cackler, and former fourth grade teacher, offers a contrasting opinion.
“At the time they implemented dual immersion in the Alpine School District, it was not clearly thought out. Therefore, many of our children became illiterate in not one but two languages. They hadn’t established a formula for homework nor had they designed a way to recruit quality teachers,” she explained.
Mother Ana Salem put her son Kardin in the dual immersion program in Park City when he was six years old.
“My hope for the program was two fold,” Salem said. “One, I've always wanted to speak another language and even though I took language through middle school and high school I can barely remember a few words. My hope was that with Kardin being immersed he would really grasp another language. I think it gives him confidence and something to be proud about. Secondly and most importantly, I truly believe that learning a second languages challenges and expands the mind in ways other learning paths can't. Similar to learning a musical instrument.”
So far, she has been extremely satisfied with the program. It amazes her how much her son has learned in only two and a half years.
“The only thing I'm disappointed with is the lack of planning to continue the program past 5th grade. My strong feeling is if the program falls apart after 5th, than all of the hard work is for naught. There have been improvements for 6th on but it's not enough. My goal was NOT to have Kardin pass the AP French test. My goal was for him to speak another language fluently,” Salem said.
Learning a second language certainly has its benefits. One of the ways to do this is to enter a dual immersion program in your school, but this can have downsides. Don’t fret! This is not the only way. Whether a child, a senior citizen, or anywhere in between, it’s never too late to experience the benefits of learning a second language.
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