Benefits of Learning a Second Language

Many people talk about how trendy learning a foreign language is. However, only a few people know about the facts and research that demonstrate the cognitive benefits of learning a second language.

Can Learning a Foreign Language Enhance your Decision making?

In 2012, an issue of Psychological Science published the findings of researchers at the University of Chicago about the cognitive advantages of learning a foreign language. Their findings suggested that humans are more likely to make better decisions when they are thinking in a second language. Now, what happens to your brain when you learn a new language? Well, when humans are thinking in the language that appears natural to them, they are more in touch with their inner risk-averse psychology. This prevents them from taking risks and gaining higher returns. The research found that people make more logical decisions when their aversion to losses is reduced because of thinking and speaking in a second language. In another experiment, researchers studied students who gained a little proficiency in Spanish. Each student was given $15, in one-dollar bills. They had to take one dollar out for a bet to win $1.50. It was observed that those who knew just English had more fear of losing $1 (only 54% of them took the bet), while those who learned Spanish as a second language, and were thinking in Spanish, were more inclined towards taking the bet (71% of them participated).

Best Way to Learn a Second Language

There is no “one-size-fits-all” technique that can help you perfect your foreign language skills in no-time. But, there are a couple of tactics you can use to your advantage. The best way to learn a second language on your own is to make the lessons fun and engaging. Participate in fanfares, seek out social connections, organize meetups, and communicate with foreigners as much as possible. Don’t be afraid of making a mistake; it’s all about trying your best and having plenty of fun while at it.

Best Language Learning Apps

If you want to make the entire experience a little bit easier, it can be a good idea to rely on some of the best language learning apps, like:

• Babbel

• Duolingo

• Memrise

• Busuu

What Language Is Most Similar To English

Another practical tip would be to pick out a language close to your mother tongue. For those wondering what language is most similar to English, it can be a good idea to take up Frisian, a popular language spoken in Denmark. It is the closest you can get since they are both from the same West Germanic language family.

Which Is The Easiest Language To Learn

If you are wondering which is the easiest language to learn, you may take a liking to Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, or French. All of these languages are easy to get used to and are often studied by native English speakers.

What Is The Hardest Language To Learn

But, if you are asking what is the hardest language to learn since you really don’t want to keep your nose to the grindstone, you should stay away from Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, or Polish. The vocabulary, spelling, alphabet, and grammar can be immensely challenging.

Are You Better Able To Multitask By Knowing Multiple Languages?

Research has shown that when you learn a second language, your brain switches between two languages, the act of switching makes you better at multitasking. When you switch between languages in speaking, writing, and processing information, you make your brain used to juggling between tasks. This is how you become better at multitasking.

Does Being Bilingual Improve Your Memory?

When you learn a new language, what really happens is that you are memorizing the vocabulary and grammar rules of another language. This strengthens your brain muscles and makes your brain retain information longer. Thus, you experience improved memory by learning a foreign language.