Cognitive Benefits of Language Learning

As language educators, we can enumerate the cognitive benefits of language learning without thinking twice. However, this list of benefits does not often have its desired impact in advocacy. Our messaging regarding the cognitive benefits of world language learning can change. In debate terminology, we need the “link, brink, and impact”. The link is how we benefit from language learning. The brink is how these benefits could be generally beneficial. The impact is the ultimate consequence and must be tied to what matters to us most: basic, psychological, and self-fulfillment needs. Consider relating that list of benefits in terms of how each one has a personal impact on the daily life and expectations of your students. This compilation shows the link, brink, and impact of how language has cognitive benefits that affect us personally.