Language Learning: Sharing language learning experiences,
techniques, and challenges
People learn a new language for all sorts of reasons – to work or study in another
country, move abroad, or simply for pleasure. No matter the motivation, many
students find that the experience of studying a new language enriches their lives. But
did you also know a language changes your brain at a physical level? Numerous
studies have examined how learning a new language at different ages can make a
difference to the way your brain works. Let’s take a look at how learning a second
language affects your brain.
A neurological perspective on language learning
Bilingual people, who have learned two languages side by side from early childhood,
have been studied by scientists for decades. They are keen to understand how
speaking two languages fluently affects people on a cognitive level. And with the
advent of MRI technology, researchers are now able to see on a very visual level the
differences between monolingual brains and bilingual brains. Everyone’s brain is
made up of neurons, which have a cell body, and dendrites, which are the connections
between neurons. This is what we call “grey matter.”
Bilingual people have more of these neurons and dendrites compared to people who
speak only one language. This means that their grey matter is denser. Bilingualism
also has an impact on white matter – that is, a system of nerve fibres which connect
all four lobes of the brain. This system coordinates communication between the
different brain regions, helping your brain to learn and function. Bilingual adults have
increased white matter integrity compared to adults who only speak one language.
Their second language experience actually boosts their brain’s reserves.
What about people who learn a language later on?
Students who are learning a second language later in life can still benefit from some
of the neurological changes that happen to speakers of second languages, no matter
what level they are at. Having new experiences (novelty) is an important factor in
forming new connections in the brain and strengthening nervous system links. These
links and connections are maintained through regular practice.
Studying a new language combines novelty with practice. For example, students learn
new words and grammatical constructs and spend time reviewing and building on
their previous knowledge as part of the learning process.
This combination is one of the reasons that language learning is such an effective
brain workout and protects older learners against dementia and other degenerative
neurological conditions. But everyone can benefit from language learning. It is
arguably one of the most complex mental activities you can do. So, it’s a powerful
way to exercise your brain.
How language learning boosts other skills
Given the measurable impact of language learning on the brain, it’s no surprise that
these physical changes are accompanied by the improvement of certain other skills
such as communication, creativity, recall and concentration.
Better academic performance
In a meta-analysis of 20 studies examining language learning and its impact on
academic performance, the majority of studies (90%) showed that language learners
perform better across a range of academic subjects than students who don’t study a
second language. Learning another language also boosts student literacy, which gives
learners an advantage in core school subjects like mathematics and science.
Improved concentration
Just one week of learning a new language has a positive impact on students’ levels of
alertness and focus. This improvement was maintained with continuous language
study of at least five hours a week.
Moreover, this study encompassed learners from the age of 18 to 78, and the
improvement in attention span was noted across all age groups. So, studying a new
language will boost students’ concentration, no matter what age they are.
A more powerful memory
Studying a language engages memorization skills (learning new words and rules) as
well as recall (producing new language in-class activities). So it’s no surprise that
people who regularly use a second language have more powerful memories.
In fact, research shows that people who speak a second language regularly perform
better on memory tests than monolingual people. It makes no difference whether they
learned the language as a child or as an adult, either. What’s more, language learning
improves both short term and long term memory. Early studies on language learning
found evidence that it boosted learners’ empathy. More recent research has found that
empathy is a key trait for success in learning a second language.
Speaking a second language can help to improve students’ ability to see things from
another perspective. In turn, this can have a positive impact on their communication
skills. In addition, the practice of academic skills involved in language study, such as
active listening, can improve learners’ communication skills in their everyday lives.
More creativity
Bilingual children exhibit more creativity in problem-solving and flexibility than their
monolingual peers. The same holds true for learners of a second language.
Researchers across different studies have found that studying a language seems to
unlock students’ creative abilities. This could be the result of the thought processes
involved in language learning. These include translation, language switching and
disciplined study, along with a willingness to learn and adapt.
Language learning skills will help learners in all areas of their lives, improving their
mental abilities, and helping them with problem-solving and decision–making.
Ultimately, this all goes towards enriching their personal, social and professional
relationships.
So, whether you’re a learner or a teacher of other languages, you’re building skills,
exercising your brain and building your cognitive reserves every time you speak a
second language!
Questions
1. What do you find most challenging about learning a new language?
2. How do you feel when you can't understand something in the new language?
3. What strategies do you use to remember new vocabulary?
4. Do you prefer learning new languages through reading, listening, or speaking?
Why?
5. How do you think learning a new language can benefit you in the future?
6. Have you ever felt embarrassed or nervous when speaking in a new language?
How did you overcome it?
7. What motivates you to keep learning a new language even when it's difficult?
8. Do you think it's important to practice speaking with native speakers? Why or
why not?
9. How do you balance learning grammar rules with practicing speaking and
listening skills?
10. What advice would you give to someone who is just starting to learn a new
language?
Group Discussions:
11. What are some fun activities or games we can do to practice our new language
skills together?
12. How do cultural differences affect the way we learn and use a new language?
13. Can you share a story about a time when you successfully communicated in the
new language despite challenges?
14. What are some common mistakes you've noticed other learners make when
speaking the new language? How can we avoid them?
15. How does learning a new language help us better understand our own language
and culture?
16. Should schools offer more opportunities for students to learn languages other
than English? Why or why not?
17. How can technology be used to enhance language learning outside of the
classroom?
18. What role do you think confidence plays in language learning? How can we build
confidence in speaking a new language?
19. How can we support each other as a group in our language learning journey?
20. What are some long-term goals we can set for ourselves in learning this new
language?
Role plays
1.Scenario 5: Sharing Tips on Learning Languages
Role A: Experienced Learner
You have been learning a new language for a while and have some tips to share.
Role B: New Learner
You just started learning a new language and are looking for advice.
Dialogue Example:
2. Scenario 4: Visiting a New Country
Role A: Tourist
You are visiting a new country and want to practice the local language. Ask for
directions and other helpful information.
Role B: Local Resident
You live in the country the tourist is visiting. Help them with directions and answer
their questions.
