Academic Benefits

Learning another language increases understanding of language structures, which positively influences the development of spelling, reading, and comprehension skills in the first language. A study of Grade 4 and 5 students in an immersion program also showed that they matched or outperformed their English-only program peers in core subjects such as math and science. Another study discovered that knowing two languages can help learners self-correct their mathematical errors.

Personal Benefits

Children growing up in dual-language environments may better understand a speaker’s intent by noticing verbal and non-verbal cues. Bilinguals also have an advantage in non-verbal creativity: they find unique ways of solving problems due to their experience with different linguistic and cultural frameworks. Additionally, they have a significantly higher tolerance of ambiguity, which leads to a higher tolerance for others. The cultural learning that accompanies language learning also contributes to building minds open to different values, beliefs, perspectives, and communicative practices.

Societal Benefits

Language learners show enhanced understanding of diversity in their communities and in the wider world. They tend to be active and engaged global citizens, helping make our world a better place by becoming more acquainted with it. Learning a second language encourages a global sense of place, recognition of others, and openness toward diverse cultural experiences. It also promotes respect for linguistic, cultural, and racial diversity.

Intercultural Benefits

Language learners who learn about the target culture demonstrate more positive attitudes toward the language, its culture, and its speakers. Language learning may reduce cultural prejudices and encourage learners to develop respect for other cultures via enhanced critical awareness of the self and others. It also has potential for fostering intercultural dialogue and easing antagonism between conflicting sides.

Economic Benefits

Research has shown that the economic benefits of speaking a second language include higher earnings, greater job opportunities, and larger social and professional networks. Speaking many languages boosts career prospects, and bilingual employees have a higher earning potential than their monolingual peers. For businesses, the benefits of multilingualism include increased competitiveness, international trade, and economic growth.

Learn more about the economic advantages of bilingualism: Economic Advantages of Bilingualism, Literature Review (Government of Canada)

Benefits for Students with Exceptionalities

Students with special needs often succeed in language programs because their difficulties are not always related to language learning. Those who do have trouble with receptive or productive language can benefit from second language learning if they receive proper support. Students with exceptionalities who are learning a new language may be enhancing rather than delaying their language development. Also, since their language-learning challenges are often not significantly different from those of other children, interventions used to teach languages to students with special education needs may benefit all students.

Benefits of Additional Language Learning

Contrary to popular belief, learning an additional (third, fourth, etc.) language does not negatively impact a child’s overall language development. In fact, language acquisition research has found that multilinguals have an easier time learning additional languages. Their increased aptitude for language learning makes them better able to pick up other languages.