“United in diversity” – that is the motto of the European Union which has today 28 member states and 24 official languages. Indeed, in the EU each language is considered unique, therefore it is worth learning further languages. This is, among others, the reason why for example the European Commission pursues the goal that every citizen of the European Union should possess at least two further languages beside their mother tongue.
The “Eurobarometer 386” survey, however, revealed that learning languages seems to be quite unpopular. But why is this the case? Actually, most of the people surveyed (34%) said that they do not feel motivated to learn another language as they do not see any need for it. Another 28% say that they do not learn further languages due to lack of time, whereas 25% of the respondents answered that it is too expensive and 19% think that, concerning language learning, they are simply without any talent.
In the same survey people were asked to quote possible reasons to learn further languages. The answers are really interesting as for the majority (29%) of the respondents the courses should be for free. Others (19%) answered that they would only learn another language if they got paid for it or if they were sure to get promoted or have better career prospects (18%). Another 18% would like to learn another language only if they had the possibility to go to a country where the language is spoken.
It seems that many people forget that learning further languages brings them more advantages than they actually think. Academics and doctors found out that possessing further language skills improves a person’s multi-tasking skills. In addition, they become more flexible and critical in thinking and, hence, are even able to improve their performance in other academic areas. Another advantage is that you also improve your reading and writing skills if you know further languages. But beside these advantages you also gain some personal benefits like communicating with people all over the world in the language you are learning while studying or travelling. You will see that they really appreciate if you make an effort to speak their language. This way, you also have the possibility to get to know their culture better, and thus enrich your experience. In addition, you enlarge your career options which will enable you to find jobs across different fields.
Certainly, at first glance it seems quite difficult to learn another language as many people think that it is very time-consuming. However, some useful hints and tricks make it easier to learn another language, and they do not even demand a lot of additional time. The most important thing is just that you start eating humble pie. This means that you should start learning a few basic phrases that enable you to do some small talk. It is also very helpful to read in the language you want to learn. Underline the words you do not understand and create a vocabulary list. If you already have some basic knowledge you can start watching television – of course with subtitles. You can also download some apps like Duolingo or FluentU that support your language learning, as you can use them while commuting to your job for example. A very important aspect in language learning is to keep practicing. Travel to a country where the language is spoken and get in touch with the people there in order to practically use your language skills. In case you are not able or do not have the possibility to find an in-person partner with whom you can communicate, it might be helpful to do so via social media. This way, you can meet people virtually either on Facebook or Skype for example, and practice the language.
You will see that learning another language can be really easy and a lot of fun, too. Just think about it and go for it!
Sources:
Rahmenstrategie für Mehrsprachigkeit
Why should we learn more languages?
Don’t forget the value of foreign language
How to learn a new language in 8 simple steps
Written by Patricia Bula, study visitor at TermCoord