The Enduring Value of Learning Languages in Education

The Constant Role of Language Learning

Throughout the history of education, learning a foreign language or languages has been a constant component. Of course, many people feel that this is really an unnecessary part of education for everyone, but this is not a point of view that I share.

Arguments Against Mandatory Language Learning

Opponents of learning a foreign language might argue that most people do not travel that often outside their own country. In addition to this, out of all the countries of the world, comparatively few share the same language. Therefore, learning a foreign language will only be useful for the very limited time that one spends in a country where this language is used. For some people, the language might never be used in their entire lives. When one thinks about how much time and money are spent training language teachers, buying resources, going on trips, and delivering lessons for such a negligible benefit, this would seem to be a very inefficient allocation of resources.

Why Learn a Foreign Language? Key Benefits

However, the benefits of learning a foreign language go further than just the ability to use it from time to time on a holiday or business trip.

1. Understanding Language Structure: Through learning one language, one gains an understanding, to some extent, of how all languages work. Thus, no matter where people might end up around the world, the knowledge of language structure can be of use.
2. Cultural Appreciation and Empathy: With the study of a foreign language, one also opens oneself up to other cultures. This allows, in turn, an appreciation for different points of view and belief systems. With an ever-shrinking world due to globalization, the ability to empathize and understand people from other countries is vital to reducing conflict and creating a more tolerant society.
3. Improved Cognitive Skills: Finally, quite simply, learning languages is excellent for improving general cognitive skills.

Conclusion: Language Learning is Essential

It seems to me that learning a foreign language, therefore, is more than just gaining the ability to speak a few words of a foreign tongue. It is part of intellectual and social development and needs to be continued for everyone in today’s schools.

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