All the Reasons You Need to Learn a Foreign Language ...

Most of the time, learning a foreign language is motivated by professional reasons. A foreign language is learned to satisfy the requirements of a job, to receive a promotion, or for better chances in career in general. Learning a foreign language can also be a requirement in school or for a degree. Although not necessary, individuals who want to study abroad may want to learn the language before they depart for their destination.

Geographic, economic, or political conditions in one?s country may motivate individuals to learn a second language. In most of the countries in Europe, it is critical for career success to speak a second language. This can be explained by the fact that the market is scattered among regions where different languages are spoken. The European Union has 24 official languages, a number that does not include all the languages in the region. Some countries in EU have multiple official languages. For example, Belgium, a country with eleven million inhabitants, has three official languages: French, Dutch, and German. European countries depend on each other economically. Therefore, the professionals in these countries have to speak at least one foreign language in order to collaborate with their colleagues in other countries. What seems to be a disadvantage, a scattered market, is actually a huge advantage. By speaking at least one foreign language, Europeans are able to understand other cultures better, which leads to better international relationships in business and diplomacy.

Specialization

Some languages are dominant in certain domains. An evident example is the dominance of English in IT. It is impossible to build a career in IT without understanding English, at least at a basic level. Academics who want to study German philosophers in-depth might want to learn German, in order to read the texts in their original form. Scholars who are focused on history or religion might want to learn Latin or Arabic. That way they can study the original texts instead of working on the translations.

Personal Motivations

Combining professional and personal reasons can boost the chances to succeed in learning a foreign language. A common personal reason to learn a second language is to communicate better with a partner in a relationship. In multilingual families, it is not rare that one of the parents does not speak the language that the children and the other parent use to communicate with each other. This is a strong motivator to learn that language. Some of the second generation immigrants learn the language of their parents in order to learn more about their roots and stay connected with their origins.

Cultural Appeal

French, Japanese, Chinese, American, Arabic, Italian, and Spanish cultures are some of the cultures which appeal to foreigners. People who feel attracted to them start learning their languages to immerse themselves in these cultures and their history. They can read books, newspapers, and magazines, watch theater plays and movies, and participate in cultural events in those languages.

The pronunciation of a language can seduce many people into learning it. The French language is a prime example of this phenomenon. Individuals are also attracted by the pronunciation of Italian, Spanish, Arabic, or Dutch.

Life as an Expat

Many expats do not make the effort to learn the local language, living an isolated life among other expats as a result. On the other hand, some expats choose to learn the local language. That way they can connect with locals, understand their culture, and build better relationships, which leads to personal growth as a result.

Intellectual

Understanding a few languages, even if not speaking fluently, provides a better perspective of the world. One is not anymore limited to the news and opinions of the local press, but can build a more accurate opinion by reading and listening to the news and opinions from international resources. The importance of having an accurate view on global matters is increasing every day, as the world is getting more and more interconnected.

Travel

Individuals who travel often to the same country for vacation or other reasons may choose to learn the local language. Speaking the local language allows tourists to go beyond the touristic sites and shopping malls and to connect with local people.

Just for the Fun of It

Learning a second language can be an enjoyable experience. It is a hobby for many individuals, a pleasant and fruitful use of their spare time. Learning a second language is perceived to be a mental challenge by many. It keeps their mind sharp and improves their intelligence. Some people learn a second language to satisfy their curiosity. Others find it exciting to communicate with someone from another country.

Embarrassment and jealousy are also among personal motivations to learn a second language, especially English. Speaking a second language gives a sense of achievement, confidence, and satisfaction.

This entry was posted on August 1, 2013, 6:52 am and is filed under Languages. You can follow any responses to this entry through RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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