“Bridging the Linguistic Divide”: The Impact of Language Barriers on Bilingual Students
By Emily W.
“A language barrier, in the most basic and simplistic use of the term, is the lack of a common language that prevents two or more people from speaking to or understanding each other through verbal communication.”
Young scholars Bella and Jose walk us through the benefits of being bilingual.
Being a young bilingual student can provide various benefits to an individual, such as cognitive, social, and economic benefits. In this post, I will discuss the various advantages that can be gained from being a young bilingual student, including cognitive benefits, social benefits, and economic benefits.
Research conducted by S Kempert, H Saalbach and I Hardy in 2011 suggests that being a young bilingual student can provide cognitive benefits. Specifically, the study found that bilingual students demonstrate greater cognitive flexibility, which allows them to better adjust to changing environmental demands. This cognitive ability can be seen in a variety of activities, such as problem solving, making decisions and working memory.
The study found that this cognitive flexibility is not only a result of being bilingual, but is also associated with a student’s level of proficiency in their second language. For example, the study found that students with higher levels of proficiency in their second language demonstrated better cognitive flexibility. This indicates that the more proficient a student is in their second language, the more cognitive benefits they can experience. This research provides evidence that being bilingual can be beneficial for young students, particularly when language proficiency is taken into account.
Well… What do WE do to help?
By providing bilingual students with the opportunity to study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, we are supplying young scholars the necessary tools and information to access STEM education in Texas. This is the key to giving these students a brighter future along with providing students with the learning and skills needed to succeed in the 21st century. It will open doors for them, by giving them access to top universities and job opportunities. With the right resources and guidance, bilingual students can become the leaders of the future in Texas.
Providing access to resources and materials are necessary for STEM education. This could include providing access to computers, software, and other technology that students may not have access to at home. Additionally, schools can provide access to STEM-related books, magazines, and other materials that can help students learn more about STEM topics. Students United is determined to reveal easy ways for the parents to easily introduce and insert STEM education into their children’s lives.
To easily access any of our resources and begin educating your child on STEM today, visit our resources page. Students United is also working on allowing adults in STEM to visit local schools to demonstrate what the career is really all about, as well as ensuring all local schools have access to mentoring programs and science fairs to help them explore STEM topics in a more hands-on way.
Edited by:
Pedro Pablo Spoerer
