Bilingualism: Cognitive benefits, academic performance, and educational distinctions

Bilingualism fosters cultural sensitivity, empathy, adaptability, tolerance for ambiguity, and self-confidence. These traits are crucial for navigating multicultural environments and interacting in a globalized world. A study by Katherine Guadalupe Rivera Franco from the University of San Francisco indicates that language proficiency programs enhance mental flexibility and problem-solving skills. The research highlights that bilingual students exhibit superior executive control. This includes selective attention and the ability to inhibit distractions. This advantage stems from the constant need to manage two distinct linguistic systems. Bilingualism positively impacts academic performance. Bilingual students often outperform their monolingual peers on standardized tests. This advantage extends beyond language-related subjects to mathematics and science. The University of San Diego defines bilingual education as academic instruction in two languages, one often being the student's native language. Bilingual programs aim to develop linguistic proficiency, literacy, and academic knowledge in both languages. These programs vary from balanced use of two languages (50/50) to near-total immersion in one language. In bilingual programs, both languages serve as tools for learning across various subjects. The University of San Diego distinguishes bilingual education from English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. ESL programs focus on teaching the second language itself, rather than using it as a medium for learning other academic content. In Brazil, English as a Second Language (ESL) is regulated by the Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC). The BNCC recognizes English as a mandatory foreign language from the 6th grade onwards. It establishes specific competencies and skills for its instruction. The BNCC does not explicitly mention bilingual education as an educational modality. However, it acknowledges municipalities that have formalized indigenous and migration languages. These include Talian, Pomerano, and Hunsrickisch, recognizing the existence of bilingual education programs. A pending opinion from the Conselho Nacional de Educação (CNE/CEB) aims to establish national curriculum guidelines for multilingual education. This opinion acknowledges the exponential growth of bilingual institutions. It addresses the need for standardization. Bruna Mussolini from Pearson Education emphasizes that English language programs are a strategic investment for schools. These programs attract new students and retain current ones. Students develop linguistic skills relevant to their academic and professional futures. Diercio Ferreira, from Yázigi Pampulha, highlights the practicality and cost-effectiveness of language learning in schools. It provides students with greater exposure to the language in a familiar environment. This fosters socio-emotional skills and allows children to learn English while maintaining social connections.