Dual-Language-Ebook.Pdf

The Language Connection: How Dual Language Education Strengthens Local and Global Communities Introduction

TABLE OF CONTENTS Though bilingual education has been a part of the US public school system since the Colonial period Page 2 (National Geographic, 2020), it has fallen in and out of favor throughout the country’s history. Today, Introduction however, due to an increasing number of emergent bilingual students, also known as English language Page 3 learners, more and more schools have begun to reframe their thinking regarding dual language learning The bilingual advantage (NEA, 2019; Quintero & Hansen, 2017). Page 4 In fact, dual language immersion programs, designed to teach students in two languages, are on the rise Bilingual education: an overview (Muñiz, 2019). While a larger emergent bilingual student population is one reason for this, another is a growing Page 5 body of research demonstrating the many benefits of bilingualism, from better problem-solving skills to Today’s dual language enhanced creativity. Beyond individual benefits, bilingual education also has much to offer communities— programs and the world at large. Bilingualism can lead to greater acceptance and empathy, creating global citizens and Page 6 leaders who are better equipped to facilitate cross-cultural communication and collaboration. How bilingual education builds community Page 8 How EdTech can support Emergent bilingual education Page 9 bilinguals Conclusion

represent: 10% of current public-school 25% of public-school student Page 10 student population population by2025 References

In this eBook, we take a closer look at the history of bilingual education, its current state, and the many ways in which it can positively impact both individuals and communities. And we discuss how the right educational technology solution can help support individuals, for stronger community ties and greater unity.

2 The bilingual advantage

Today, more of the world’s population is bilingual or multilingual than monolingual (Marian & Shook, 2012). It’s estimated that up to 75% of the world’s population speaks at least two languages (Vince, 2016). The very first words were spoken 250,000 years ago, and since then, language, like biology, has evolved. Yet there is evidence to suggest that even the earliest humans—hunter-gatherers—spoke more than one language (Vince, 2016). Despite the prevalence of multilingualism through the ages, in the US, for much of the 20th century, it was thought that bilingualism would result in cognitive disadvantages—more specifically, that the use of more than one language at a young age would confuse children and lead to cognitive impairments (Antoniou, 2019). This changed in 1962, when two researchers demonstrated that bilingual children outperformed monolinguals on nonverbal tests and some verbal intelligence tests (Antoniou, 2019). Over the course of the next 50 years, additional research has found evidence that, for individuals, bilingualism can improve (Antoniou, 2019): • Executive function—the ability to plan and handle multiple tasks, skills linked to academic achievement and career success >50% of the world’s • Concentration—the ability to focus and tune out or ignore distractions, also linked to academic achievement population speaks at • Metalinguistic awareness—the ability to reflect on and think about oral and written language and how it’s used least two languages • Phonetic perception—the ability to understand, upon hearing speech, the phonetic message (the segments perceived as consonants and vowels) • Cognitive flexibility—the ability to switch between different mental sets, tasks, or strategies • Creative thinking—the ability to look at situations or problems in new ways Yet, despite these proven cognitive benefits, a language gap remains. While 52.7% of Europeans are fluent in both their native language and a second language, only 9.3% of Americans are, and only 20% of K–12 students in the US study a language (Garrett-Rucks, 2016; Mitchell, 2017).

3 A brief overview of bilingual education in the US

Though perspectives, approaches, politics, and pedagogies have changed over the years, teaching other languages has been part of US public school education since Colonial times. In fact, the very first public school in the US, the Boston Latin School, established in 1635, taught Latin and Greek and was centered on the humanities (National Geographic, 2020). Up until the end of the 19th century, bilingual education prevailed in areas where ethnic groups had influence, and not surprisingly, was limited in areas where strong anti-immigrant sentiment was felt. As nativism took hold at the turn of the 19th century, the climate became hostile toward languages other than English, leading to a steady decline in bilingual instruction. This would remain the case until the 1960s (Nieto, 2009). Prompted in part by the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Bilingual Education Act of 1968 offered funding to THE LASTING EFFECTS OF AN ENGLISH- school districts that developed bilingual programs for students whose English was not proficient (Nieto, ONLY APPROACH 2009). The act was later amended in 1974 to define bilingual educational programs, identify goals, and Maya Goodall, currently the senior director of EL require progress reports (Nieto, 2009). curriculum at Lexia Learning, has dedicated her In the 1990s, changing policies began to view bilingual education as an asset not just for emergent bilingual 20-year career to promoting bilingual education, students, but for everyone—a necessary component for improving US competitiveness in the global inspired in part by her own heritage and family. economy. As a result, “two-way” bilingual programs were developed to serve both emergent bilinguals and When Maya was a child, she says, she wondered why her family didn’t speak Spanish, even though non-emergent bilinguals, groups of students who benefit equally from the opportunity to acquire and fully it’s their heritage language. develop second-language skills (Nieto, 2009). She explains: “When my grandmother was in elementary school, her teachers would punish her for speaking anything other than English. In Changing policies began to view bilingual education as an asset those days, the teachers would take a ruler out not just for emergent bilingual students, but for everyone—a and hit her on the knuckles when they ‘caught’ her speaking Spanish. They’d even ask the other necessary component for improving US competitiveness in children to tell on my grandmother—or any of the other kids—for speaking Spanish. Thus, early on, the global economy. my grandmother, and all other students like her, learned that speaking Spanish was considered a ‘bad’ thing.”

4 Today’s dual language/bilingual education programs

As the number of emergent bilingual students has increased along with research Today there are two types of dual language emphasizing the cognitive benefits of bilingualism, more and more schools have started programs: (1) two-way programs that integrate to reframe their thinking regarding dual language learning. emergent bilinguals and non-emergent bilinguals in the same classroom for academic instruction Dual language immersion programs, designed to teach students in two languages, are on the rise (Muñiz, in both languages, and (2) one-way programs 2019). These programs vary in structure but often share three common student goals (USDOE, 2019): that instruct students in two languages but serve predominantly students from the same language 1 Develop bilingualism and biliteracy background (USDOE, 2019). Dual language immersion programs are more 2 Achieve academically at grade level or better in both languages effective when they incorporate an asset model approach, which counters popular deficit- 3 Develop an understanding and appreciation of multiple cultures oriented teaching methods by viewing heritage languages and cultures as a strength. Immersion programs also benefit from culturally responsive pedagogies, which help ensure that students see themselves and their communities reflected and valued in the content they’re taught (New America, 2019). Further encouraging bilingualism is the Seal of Biliteracy, a program designed to award students for pursuing biliteracy. Thirty-nine states currently give the seal to students who have attained proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation. In 2018, 100,000 students across the US earned this honor (Mitchell, 2019).

5 How bilingual education can strengthen community ties and make a global impact

Beyond individual benefits, dual language education and bilingualism have the power to strengthen community ties, for greater unity. Here’s how: 1 2 3

INCREASING CROSS-CULTURAL FOSTERING GREATER ACCEPTANCE DEVELOPING PROBLEM-SOLVERS WHO CAN UNDERSTANDING OF DIFFERENCES ADDRESS GLOBAL CHALLENGES Bilingual education can open students’ eyes to Effective two-way immersion programs foster Researchers have found that bilingualism cultures different from their own, increasing greater acceptance of differences by placing strengthens problem-solving skills. One study what is referred to as “cultural competence.” In all students together. These programs don’t revealed that the more dual language toddlers distinguish between native and non-native today’s globalized world, cultural competence switch between languages, the stronger their speakers—they are all bilingual students, can be a key to success (Thompson, 2016). problem-solving skills are compared with creating more cohesiveness and unity among As students learn a second language, they them (Garcia, 2015). monolingual toddlers (Crivello, et al., 2016). acquire not just linguistic forms, but also new Cognitively, studies have shown that bilinguals Problem-solving and language skills will serve ways of thinking and behaving. And they learn are more effective than monolinguals at reading students well in school and beyond, as they to think critically about cultural stereotypes, other people. Additionally, because bilinguals are move into an increasingly interconnected world. creating greater understanding (Thompson, more adept at blocking out their own feelings The ability to communicate with many different 2016). Studies have shown that bilinguals have and beliefs in order to concentrate on the other kinds of people will be useful in addressing global different mindsets for each language, and person’s, they can demonstrate greater empathy challenges like climate change, inequality, and (Vince, 2016). many bilinguals have even reported feeling like poverty (Cherian, 2016). a different person when they speak another language (Vince, 2016). Continued on the following page

6 How bilingual education can strengthen community ties and make a global impact (continued)

Beyond individual benefits, dual language education and bilingualism have the power to strengthen community ties, for greater unity. Here’s how: 4 5 6

IMPROVING COMPETITIVENESS IN A ENRICHING FAMILY AND ENHANCING COMMUNITY GLOBAL ECONOMY CULTURAL CONNECTIONS INVOLVEMENT One study has found that fluent bilingualism is When emergent bilingual students are Research has shown a strong correlation associated with a decreased likelihood of dropping discouraged from using their heritage language, between education and civic engagement out of high school and an increased probability of it can leave “an imprint of ambivalence toward (Bedolla, 2012). Bilingual education can make one’s own native language, the value of one’s obtaining a higher status job and higher annual students feel a greater sense of belonging, cultural background, and, ultimately, the value of earnings (Goldenberg & Wagner, 2015). facilitating more active civic participation oneself” (Nieto, 2009, p. 61). (As an example, see The demand for bilingual workers is rising, at both Maya’s story on page 4.) (PackZia, 2020). the low and higher ends of the skill spectrum. The inverse is also true: bilingual education can As a result, more bilingual communities may Between 2010 and 2015, online job listings create a sense of pride and an enhanced sense of participate more fully in society and the targeting bilingual employees rose by 15.7%, self, connecting families and communities that democratic process, helping to ensure their needs while the raw number of bilingual job postings share a common heritage and leading to greater and priorities are represented (PackZia, 2020). more than doubled (New American Economy, understanding. 2017). The reasons for this increased demand are many. Bilingual employees allow businesses to widen their potential customer base, increase their revenues, and better serve their existing customers (New American Economy, 2017).

7 How can the right EdTech solution support bilingual education?

Educational technology, or EdTech, has proven to be an effective way to support emergent bilingual students by combining English language learning with academic learning. Below are some of the ways EdTech can help support individuals, and create stronger communities.

The right EdTech solution: Enables remote language learning, allowing students to keep learning and connecting across distances, whether in school or at home Incorporates cultural responsiveness, enhancing a student’s feeling of belonging within the school community and beyond Creates more opportunities for speaking and listening practice, to help ensure more voices are heard in the classroom Boosts linguistic competence and confidence, for better engagement among all students Offers ongoing assessment, allowing educators to see how engaged their emergent bilingual students are, as measured by their progress Provides real-time data to help educators understand their students’ levels of knowledge and proficiency, enabling them to personalize learning and make more informed instructional decisions

8 Conclusion

Though attitudes toward bilingual education have varied throughout the years, today there’s no denying its importance. Dual language programs are not only necessary to address the needs of a growing emergent bilingual student population, but also the educational needs of all learners. From improving executive function and concentration to boosting cognitive flexibility, bilingualism offers numerous benefits to the individual. But more than that, its benefits can be felt by entire communities, igniting cultural pride and bridging cultural gaps. Educators play an inspired role, implementing programs, lessons, and the right technology solutions to enhance language learning and advance bilingualism in the US. By increasing cross-cultural understanding among their students, instilling both the language and problem-solving skills necessary to tackle an increasing number of global challenges, educators are contributing to a better, more connected world for everyone.

Learn more about language learning programs and solutions from Rosetta Stone at rosettastone.com/k12.

ABOUT ROSETTA STONE EDUCATION Rosetta Stone is a global leader in technology-driven language and learning solutions for individuals, classrooms, and entire organizations. Our scalable, interactive solutions have been used by over 12,000 businesses, 9,000 public sector organizations, and 22,000 education institutions worldwide, and by millions of learners in over 150 countries. For more information, visit www.rosettastone.com.

©2020 Rosetta Stone Ltd. All rights reserved. Rosetta Stone and other names and marks used herein are the property of Rosetta Stone Ltd. and are used and/or registered in the United States and other countries. Some products, features, and options described may still be in development.

9 References: Antoniou, M. (2019). The advantages of bilingualism debate. Annu. Rev. Linguist. 5:395-415. Bedolla, L.G. (2012). Latino education, civic engagement, and the public good. Review of Research in Education. 36:23-42. Cherian, M. (2016). 7 benefits of learning another language. Global Citizen. Retrieved 6/15/20 from https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/7-benefits-of-learning-another-language/. Crawford, J. (1987). Bilingual education traces its U.S. roots to the Colonial Era. Education Week. Retrieved 6/12/20 from https://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/1987/04/01/27early.h06.html. Crivello, C., Kuzyk, O., Rodrigues, M., Friend, M., Zesiger, P., Poulin-Dubois, D. (2016). The effects of bilingual growth on toddlers’ executive function. J. Exp. Child Psychol. 141:121-132. Garcia, A. (2015). Creating a strong dual immersion program. New America. Retrieved 5/28/20 from https://www.newamerica.org/education-policy/edcentral/beeman-part-two/. Garrett-Rucks, P. (2016). Intercultural Competence in Instructed Language Learning: Bridging Theory and Practice. Goldenberg, C., Wagner, K. (2015). Bilingual education. American Federation of Teachers. Fall. Retrieved 6/12/20 from https://www.aft.org/ae/fall2015/goldenberg_wagner. Marian, V. & Shook, A. The cognitive benefits of being bilingual. Cerebrum. 2012:13. Muñiz, J. (2019). Promoting equitable access to dual language immersion programs: a conversation with Kathryn I. Henderson. Retrieved 5/28/20 from https://www.newamerica.org/education-policy/edcentral/achieving-equitable-access-dual-language-immersion-programs-conversation-kathryn-i-henderson/. Mitchell, C. (2017). Just 20 percent of K–12 students are learning a foreign language. Education Week. Retrieved 6/24/20 from https://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2017/06/21/just-20-percent-of- k-12-students-are.html#:~:text=The%20American%20Councils%20for%20International,out%20of%20every%20five%20students. Mitchell, C. (2019). 100,000 students earned the Seal of Biliteracy, but they’re in a handful of states. Education Week. Retrieved 5/28/20 from https://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/learning-the-language/2019/10/100000_students_earned_the_seal_of_biliteracy.html. National Education Association. (2019). English language learners: research and tools. Retrieved 2/18/20 from http://www.nea.org/home/32409.htm. National Geographic. Apr 23, 1635 CE: first public school in America. Retrieved on 6/12/20 from https://www.nationalgeographic.org/thisday/apr23/first-public-school-america/. New America. (2019). Understanding culturally responsive teaching. Retrieved 5/28/20 from https://www.newamerica.org/education-policy/reports/culturally-responsive-teaching/understanding-culturally-responsive-teaching/. New American Economy. (2017). Not lost in translation: the growing importance of foreign language skills in the U.S. job market. Retrieved 5/28/20 from http://www.newamericaneconomy.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/NAE_Bilingual_V9.pdf. Nieto, D. (2009). A brief history of bilingual education in the United States. Perspectives on Urban Education. Spring: 61-69. PackZia, A. (2020). Why bilingual education is even more relevant today. Think Bilingual. Retrieved 5/28/20 from http://austin.thinkbilingual.org/why-bilingual-education-is-becoming-more-relevant-today/. Quintero, D., & Hansen, M. (2017). English learners and the growing need for qualified teachers. Brookings Institute. Retrieved 3/24/20 from https://www.brookings.edu/blog/brown-centerchalkboard/2017/06/02/english-learners-and-the-growing-need-for-qualified-teachers/. Thompson, A. (2016). How learning a new language improves tolerance. December 11, 2016. The Conversation. Retrieved 6/12/20 from https://theconversation.com/how-learning-a-new-language-improves-tolerance-68472. U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Office of English Language Acquisition: dual language learning programs and English learners. Retrieved 5/28/20 from https://ncela.ed.gov/files/fast_facts/19-0389_Del4.4_DualLanguagePrograms_122319_508.pdf. Vince, G. (2016). The amazing benefits of being bilingual. BBC Future. Retrieved 5/28/20 from https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20160811-the-amazing-benefits-of-being-bilingual.