Why Study a Language

Academic and Cognitive Benefits of Language Learning

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  1. According to ACTFL (American Council of the Teaching of Foreign Languages), some of the benefits of language learning include: enhanced problem-solving skills, improved memory function (short and long-term), more flexible and creative thinking, higher standardized test scores, and higher academic performance at the college level. - Read more from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.
  2. The bilingual brain develops unique cognitive abilities, such as attention and task-switching capacities. Benefits are found across all ages, from adaptability in infants to less decline in seniors. Read more from The Dana Foundation.
  3. In this New York Times article, discover the cognitive benefits of learning another language. It makes you smarter, and not just in areas related to language use. Why Bilinguals Are Smarter.

Career Benefits of Language Learning

  1. Fortune 500 companies, hospitals, local courts, schools and the State Department can't get enough workers with this job skill. What is it? Fluency in a foreign language - Read more from the CNN-Money article.
  2. Hear directly from real-life professionals about how learning a language has helped them find and thrive in a range of exciting careers - Success Stories from Professionals.

Cultural Benefits of Language Learning

  1. Studying another language is vital to understanding different linguistic and cultural worldviews, and hence, to working internationally. There are several reasons why electronic translators cannot replace bilingual individuals. “In Praise of Languages for Internationalization” - Read more from The Chronicle of Higher Education.
  2. Learning another language gives us access to an inside view of a different cultural perspective, increasing sensitivity to linguistic and cultural difference, and creating new enriching experiences such as travel and access to a wide range of cultural experiences. Read more from Modern Language Association

Academic and Cognitive Benefits of Language Learning

Statue of Saint Ignatius Loyola in foreground with Gonzaga University College Hall in the background.

Benefits of Language Learning

According to ACTFL, some of the benefits of language learning include: enhanced problem-solving skills, improved memory function, more flexible and creative thinking, higher standardized test scores, and higher academic performance at the college level.

Read More
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Cognitive Benefits of Being Bilingual

The bilingual brain develops unique cognitive abilities, such as attention and task-switching capacities. Benefits are found across all ages, from adaptability in infants to less decline in seniors.

Read More