by Erin McGann
Updated by Valentina Rampazzo on January 3, 2025
5 interesting facts about language learning
Language learning is an intrinsically human activity and its dynamics, a whole world to discover. We collected 5 surprising facts about this process for you. From statistics on the benefits of language acquisition, to how much more you can potentially earn because of your bilingualism. Or again, from the impact technology had on language learning to how much it enhances the understanding of the culture and worldview around an idiom. Ready to find out more? Let’s go!
While learning a language enriches the life and soul of those who learn it, this activity has demonstrated benefits and effects on the physiology of the brain too. It’s well established that those who speak two or multiple languages since childhood have a denser gray matter (the ensemble of neurons and the connections between them). White matter (the nerve fiber connecting the four lobes of the brain) has also stronger integrity, which can delay the onset of certain diseases like dementia. It’s been also discovered that in bilinguals, language-switching employs several parts of the brain that extend beyond its language networks. Pragmatically, this translates in better information processing, attention to detail and the maintaining of what’s called the “cognitive reserve“.
Bilingualism is good for the economy! It starts from the potential for increased earnings, depending on the industry, compared to your monolingual counterparts. Also, speaking multiple languages will allow you to access international job opportunities: think of tourism, diplomacy, translation and business. And these opportunities might bring you anywhere in the world. Finally, being able to communicate in several languages, makes you a valuable asset company won’t want to lose.
Ever wondered how many alphabets or writing systems are out there? From research, this number seems to vary somewhere between 100 and 200. However, what we consider ‘alphabets’ aren’t technically as such and have, instead, different nomenclature. There exist 6 categories of writing systems, according to Peter T. Daniel’s research:
Despite some being endangered, as of today, people communicate using more than 7000 languages. Asia is home to the biggest variety, with 2,314 living languages across the continent. This makes up more than 32% of those 7000. In comparison, Europe “only” hosts 291 different languages, which amounts to 3%.
Technology is a major driving force, not only in the way our appliances work but also in how language has changed.
As technology evolves, language learning will also become more accessible, efficient, and tailored. AI-powered apps and virtual tutors are already personalizing learning experiences, adapting to individual needs and pacing. At Lingoda too, we rely on AI to help make your post-classroom experience exactly what you need. However, we still maintain a human-centered approach where native-level teachers are available for you 24/7 in conversation-oriented classes. Whatever your approach is, learning a language is a great investment for your future and your soul.
