These include enhanced cognitive ability that impacts manysubject areas, an increase in appreciation for a multi-cultural society,and a competitive edge in expanded job opportunities. These advantagesvary, depending on length of study, age at which study begins, andprogram model adopted. We now turn to a more detailed description of the other advantages. A growing body of research suggests that language learningimproves cognitive skills. Some of these skills relate to language learning, others impact other areas.
Studies dating back a generation remain valid today.
Studies have demonstrated further that even more benefits are derived from more prolonged study. In the past it was thought in some quarters that bilingualism resulted in a cognitive deficit. This is not true. We know now that there is no cognitive deficit associated with bilingualism. Whether one studies another language and culture to the degree of bilingualism or not, it increases enormously one's ability to see connections.