Learning a foreign language can be an advantage on many levels, both from a personal and professional point of view.
Over the years there has been a lot of research done on this topic, such as The Benefits of Second Language Study by NEA, which has shown the importance of learning languages for oneself, even to combat certain health problems.
The first reason that may make you want to learn a new language is that it can be good for your brain.
Learning a language involves different parts of the brain, as you have to memorize, but also listen and practice, so it is a global job for the brain. In this way, learning a language helps to work and improve your memory, as well as your concentration. It can even be a positive way to gain creativity.
These beneficial effects are demonstrated by the fact that older people who can speak several languages are often less affected by the symptoms of dementia that can appear at a later age.
Opening up to the world and discovering different cultures
When you learn a new language, you do more than just retain new words, learn conjugation rules and how to form complete sentences.
It’s also about opening up to the world and discovering the culture associated with the language you want to learn, whether it’s through German, Japanese, Spanish or any other language.
Cultural competence is essential today and allows you to interact in a rich intercultural environment. Through language learning, this competence can be developed by analyzing how people function and their history.
Learning a new language also allows you to develop new ways of thinking and acting, as well as helping you find the appropriate behavior in unfamiliar situations,such as in the presence of people with a culture different from your own.
If you are interested in learning a new language, here are 5 tips to put it into practice during the summer:
- Be consistent.
- Use the new vocabulary in sentences.
- Don’t be afraid of being wrong.
- Think in the new language.
- Change the language on your electronic devices.
As mentioned in our article Summer and a new language are the perfect combination, learning or perfecting another language will always be an unforgettable experience, especially if you acquire or improve it in the summer.
While you travel, have fun and open yourself up to new experiences for a broader vision of the world.
Learning a new language when visiting a country will multiply your possibilities of learning, especially during the summer.
If, for example, you decide to study Spanish, you have 27 countries to choose from where you can study, speak and understand this Romance language.
You can travel to Europe, Latin America or Africa, where in addition to opening yourself to language acquisition, you will be immersed in a culturally rich environment.
