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Feb 26, 2024
In today’s interconnected world, language skills are no longer just a “nice to have” but a vital tool for success.
“Language shapes the way we think, and determines what we can think about.”
– Benjamin Lee Whorf
Learning a new language as an adult can seem daunting. You may feel like you don’t have the time or that you’re just not “good at languages.” However, the payoff for pushing through those mental blocks is huge. Being multilingual opens up professional opportunities, allows you to connect with new cultures, and even provides cognitive benefits.
To help you on your language learning journey, here are 5 scientifically-backed facts that may surprise you:
1. Learning languages gets easier as you age up to 60 years old
Contrary to popular belief, adults are actually better language learners than children in many ways. Adults can call upon more robust cognitive abilities, like reasoning and memory strategies. In fact, research shows that language learning ability remains stable from your 20s through your 60s. So don’t let your age hold you back!
According to (MIT News) a 2018 study published in Cortex, “Adults actually have the advantage when it comes to learning language.”
2. You don’t have to “code-switch” between languages
Many people believe you need to strictly separate the languages you know into different mental spaces. However, studies show people who learn multiple languages access one combined system.
Researchers at Penn State concluded: “It appears that the brain areas involved in language processing don’t switch languages, but rather, they respond to both languages at the same time.”
3. Consistency trumps intensity
When learning a language, it’s better to study a little bit every day rather than cramming for a few hours once a week. A study of Spanish learners published in Cognition found that participants learned more words studying them 8 times over 4 weeks vs studying them 4 times in 1 week.
“Regular practice is key to learning vocabulary in a new language,” said researcher Phillip Grimaldi.
4. Learning languages boosts brain health
Being multilingual provides lifelong cognitive benefits. Knowing multiple languages improves attention, memory, and multitasking. Bilingualism may even delay the onset of dementia by 4-5 years!
Per a 2023 study in Neuropsychologia: “Bilingualism offers lifelong advantages in attentional control, working memory, and problem-solving skills.”
5. You already know more than you think
When learning a new language, don’t underestimate what you already know from your native language. Transferring skills from linguistic concepts like grammar, reading strategies, writing style, and tone can boost your learning.
A 2019 study in the Annual Review of Applied Linguistics stated: “Similarities between languages can facilitate positive transfer between them.”
So be confident in the knowledge you already possess!
There you have it—five science-backed insights on language learning that can help maximize your success on the journey to multilingualism. With the right mindset and effective strategies, learning a new language is achievable at any age.
Here are three tips to get the most from these findings
– Set small, realistic goals. Consistency is key, so aim for 10-15 minutes of study per day rather than hours of cramming.
– Leverage your strengths. Draw on your innate skills in memory, reading, writing, and vocabulary to accelerate learning.
– Stay motivated. Find a language coach, join a conversation group, or watch foreign films to keep your interest alive.
Don’t let preconceived notions hold you back from one of life’s most enriching experiences. Now get out there are start speaking!
Here’s how Training Booth can help you master a new language
To complement these insights, our website, Training Booth, offers personalized and effective corporate language training. Our approach is designed to align with the science-backed principles mentioned above, emphasizing regular practice, leveraging existing skills, and providing motivation through interactive coaching and engaging content.
Contact us today to discuss your unique needs and discover how Training Booth can help your team achieve remarkable results through language learning. Let’s embark on this journey together!
Incorporate these findings into your language learning journey, setting small, realistic goals, leveraging your strengths, and staying motivated with the support of Training Booth.
With the right mindset and effective strategies, proficiency in a new language is achievable at any age.
