Benefits of Building a Bilingual Community
By Anneke Forzani

We are a country in which close to 20% of the population speaks a language other than English at home. Our country is also part of an increasingly global community. So, when Barack Obama suggests that every American child should learn a second language, his position makes sense.

What is disheartening (though perhaps not surprising) is some of the criticism Mr. Obama has received over his statements. In light of this discourse, it seems appropriate to review the many benefits of bilingualism, keeping in mind that in many cases we simply need to promote and build on existing skills in order to build an increasingly bilingual community.

• Academic, Cognitive and Linguistic Benefits:
  
  Many studies confirm the academic and cognitive benefits of language learning. Research shows that being bilingual structurally changes the brain and that bilingual speakers have denser “gray matter” than monolinguals. Second language instruction appears to support creativity and complex problem solving. Several studies have also demonstrated benefits of foreign language study on the achievement of English language arts, showing that students who study a second language score better on achievement tests.
  
  As far as the English Language Learning population in the United States, research shows that children with a strong foundation in their home language learn to speak, read and write better than those who do not have that foundation. Many cognitive and early literacy skills (e.g. print concepts, phonemic awareness) transfer from one language to another. All of this reinforces the need to promote development of a student’s home language while he or she is learning English.
  
  
• Individual Benefits:
  
  Looking beyond the research, there are many personal benefits of language learning. Learning another language helps many individuals communicate with family and/or connect with their heritage. For many children, language is central to their identity, and learning the second language builds security and self-esteem.
  
  Even for those who come from monolingual households, learning a second language helps them communicate with others, provides a greater understanding of other cultures and communities, and often allows for better travel experiences. It provides a greater depth and richness to their life experience.
  
  There are also personal economic benefits. With more demand for bilingual professionals, being bilingual and having exposure to other languages and cultures can open up numerous job opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
  
  
• Societal Benefits:
  
  What about the benefits of bilingualism to our country, especially as it plays a role in the larger worldwide community?
  
  I would argue that more people speaking another language and learning about other cultures will lead to more tolerance and a greater understanding for our diverse communities. America certainly needs more linguistically and culturally skilled individuals to support diplomacy and enhance our security abroad.
  
  In addition, many industries require a workforce with language skills to be competitive and succeed in the global economy. Many businesses and government employers also need bilingual individuals to communicate more effectively at home, where the constituency or “customer base” has become increasingly diverse.

As parents and teachers we have a wonderful opportunity, as well as a responsibility to support the learning of other languages and cultures and to build on the skills that already exist in this country. Bilingualism and the study of foreign languages should not be a political or partisan issue. It is a common sense issue.

Anneke Forzani is President and Founder of Language Lizard, LLC.

© Language Lizard, LLC. 2008.

Want to use this article in your e-zine or web site? Contact Language Lizard President and Founder, Anneke Forzani, at [email protected].