The 8 primary benefits of English language learning

Learning a new language is both a complex process and a major commitment in terms of time and effort. However, there are huge benefits to learning a second language. 

So, if you’re considering joining us in one of our ESL programs, which are free for our students and their families, here are some of the many benefits.

The Ability to Communicate in a New Language

While it might seem obvious, the main benefit a person gains when they commit to learning English, or any language is the ability to use that language to communicate with other speakers of that language and use it to create connections with a wider range of people.

The Brain Undergoes a Change in Electrical Activity 

According to a 2010 study, “The Contribution of Multilingualism to Creativity,” learning a new language increases electrical activity in the brain, even at the earliest stages of language learning. This increased electrical activity has a number of benefits including better brain health and increased creativity.

Before this study, it was believed this change in brain functioning only occurred when students had obtained a high level of language ability in the new language.

Superior Memory Function

The 2010 survey of language learning students showed an increase in memory capacities, especially in short-term memory. The learning of a new language stimulates the brain’s ability to store new memories allowing the brain to keep information readily available for longer durations while thinking processes are activated.

Increased Mental Flexibility

Learning a new language forces the brain to create new neural pathways to deal with the information being processed. These new neural pathways allow a person to enhance their mental flexibility, which is particularly important in keeping the brain healthy. In effect, language learning helps exercise the brain to keep it flexible and agile. 

Increased Problem-Solving Abilities

Learning a new language is essentially one big problem-solving exercise. Language learners benefit from increased problem-solving abilities in all of the following areas:

• Abstract thinking skills
• Concept formation
• Creative hypothesis formulation
• Strengthened capacity to identify, understand and solve problems
• The ability to focus on a task by filtering out distractions and extraneous information 
• An increase in multi-tasking ability

Greater Comprehension for How Language Works and Is Used

The acquisition of a second language benefits a person by creating a greater comprehension of how language works and is used. This means that not only are multilingual people better able to better read and interpret social situations, they are also able to learn new languages, even non-verbal ones like computer coding, faster than monolingual people. 

Prevents the Deterioration of Brain Functioning Over Time

As we’ve already mentioned, learning languages exercises your brain, which can prevent age-based cognitive decline. Multiple studies have shown that individuals who were multilingual had a decreased rate of development of age-related cognitive problems such as dementia. 

Increased Ability in Digital Literacy

Individuals who are multilingual have a noticeable ability to stay up to date with modern technologies. This is because the increased mental agility imparted by learning more than one language renders them better able to adapt to new situations and learn new skills.

Experienced, Efficient, And Free For Students

The benefits of taking an ESL course are clear. By improving your English skills you gain better access to education, greater earning potential, a better social life, and even better results from healthcare. We here at Northwest Community College are committed to enhancing our students’ lives, which is why we are proud to offer our ESL courses free of charge to our students and to extend that offer to their families.

Our seasoned language teachers are experienced in working with international students from all over the world and are there to help you get the most from your classes. To help your lessons fit in with your work and home life we also offer day and weekend classes. If you are interested in taking advantage of this excellent opportunity then call one of our ESL councilors today at (702) 403-1592.