THE IMPACT OF MULTILINGUAL LEARNING ON STUDENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

ABSTRACT

Modern educational systems are actively introducing multilingual education, which is associated with globalization and the need to prepare students for intercultural communication. This article examines the impact of multilingual learning on students' academic performance, analyzes its advantages and challenges. The results of research confirming that multilingualism promotes the development of cognitive skills, but at the same time requires adaptation of the educational environment to minimize potential difficulties, are presented.

Multilingual learning is becoming an integral part of education in the context of globalization. In universities and schools around the world, teaching is carried out in several languages, which contributes to the formation of intercultural communication skills and competitiveness in the international labor market. However, the impact of multilingual learning on student academic performance remains a matter of debate. The purpose of this article is to explore how multilingualism affects academic performance, highlight its advantages and identify potential problems.

Keywords: multilingual, education, globalization, language, study, develop. world, citizen.

Multilingualism is not just the ability to speak several languages, it is the key to a deeper perception of the world. In today's globalized world, multi-language proficiency is becoming an important skill.

In the last decade, there has been a rapid increase in interest in multilingualism. In Europe, this development is certainly linked to the European Union's commitment to a multilingual Europe. In 1995, it was proposed that EU citizens should speak three European languages, their L1 language and two other community languages, in order to ensure multilingualism as an essential characteristic of European identity. In later documents, this was indicated as including one foreign language with a high international status (not necessarily English) and a neighboring language, such as French in Germany or Italian in Austria. These ideas, which have been developed at the socio-political level, do not necessarily correspond to the attitude towards bilingualism and multilingualism that currently exists among the European population. [1]

Multilingual people are still treated as several monolinguals in one, which in most cases inevitably leads to treating multilingual people as incompetent speakers of each of these languages. The misunderstanding of the phenomenon of multilingualism is rooted in the long-standing Western tradition of prejudice against bilingualism and multilingualism, attributing negative and harmful effects on the cognitive development of bilingual or multilingual children. [2]

On the other hand, a recent study by Ulrika Jessner promotes bilingualism as a kind of guarantee of lifelong cognitive advantages over monolinguals. The benefits of multilingualism and multilingual education have been promoted over the past decade. In particular, the results in the field of learning a third language and trilingualism, which have established themselves as an independent field, have contributed to a better understanding of multilingual processes and their use.

Consequently, the teaching of a third language has been based on various trends in research on multi-language acquisition, but these results also call into question learning and teaching. [3] Although both areas are very young, some trends can be described. However, more fundamental research on multilingual education is still to be done, and it certainly creates problems for researchers and teachers involved in language planning.

Multilingual children often show higher academic results. Research by Harvard University has proven that learning a second language improves critical thinking skills and analytical abilities, which has a positive effect on academic performance at school. An example of successful students who speak several languages is Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of the famous social network, who has studied several languages since childhood and this has helped him build a successful career.

According to Brown, learned multilingualism can also lead to active balanced language proficiency, but this is an unusual case related to specific circumstances. Most scientists of that time emphasized the negative impact of bilingualism on intelligence and cognitive abilities. [4]

The benefits of multilingualism

• Cognitive Development: Research shows that learning multiple languages improves memory, attention, and problem-solving ability.
• Social adaptation: Proficiency in several languages contributes to integration into a multilingual environment.
• Improving academic opportunities: Students who speak several languages demonstrate a high level of critical thinking.

In the ever-changing landscape of global classrooms, multilingualism acts as a vital tool to meet the diverse needs of students from different language fields. These classes bring together people with different language skills, which makes it extremely important to address the issue of linguistic diversity in order to ensure a fair and effective education.

Multilingualism in this context recognizes the richness of student experience and therefore contributes to the creation of an inclusive learning environment. Thus, by giving lectures in several languages, teachers recognize the different linguistic abilities of students, thereby improving understanding and engagement. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of belonging, effectively eliminating any disadvantages caused by language barriers.

Research shows that multilingual learning contributes to:

• The development of cognitive flexibility and the ability to solve complex problems.
• To improve the ability to perceive and analyze information.

To increase students' motivation to study through access to educational materials in different languages. [5]

In a study conducted in the European Union, it was found that students studying in several languages have better results in tests of cognitive abilities. For example, in Finland, where students study at least three languages, academic performance in mathematics and science is higher than in countries with a monolingual education system.

Kazakhstan is actively implementing trilingual education (Kazakh, Russian and English). Studies have shown that students studying in three languages adapt better to international programs. However, students in rural regions have difficulties with the English language, which affects their overall academic performance.

To minimize the negative impact and improve the academic performance of students, it is necessary:

1. Develop teacher training programs for working in a multilingual environment.
2. Provide students with language support, including additional courses.
3. Take into account the level of language training when developing training programs.
4. Encourage the use of interactive teaching methods that contribute to a better perception of the material [6]

However, multilingual learning also faces a number of difficulties. The main problem is the language barrier. Students who are not proficient in the language of instruction may have difficulty understanding complex terms or concepts, especially in technical disciplines. For example, in Kazakhstan, where a trilingual education system is being introduced (Kazakh, Russian and English), many students from rural schools face difficulties due to poor language training.

Another difficulty is the increased burden on students. Learning several languages at the same time requires considerable effort, which can lead to fatigue and a decrease in interest in learning. Some students note that due to multilingualism, they have to devote more time not to studying the subject itself, but to overcoming the language barrier.

Despite the challenges, multilingual learning has huge potential. In order for it to effectively contribute to improving academic performance, it is necessary to take into account the level of training of students, provide them with language support and develop the qualifications of teachers.

Conclusion

Multilingual learning has both advantages and challenges. It promotes the development of cognitive skills, improves intercultural communication and increases student motivation. However, successful implementation requires thoughtful preparation of the educational environment and student support. Further research in this area will help improve teaching methods and ensure higher academic results. It develops cognitive abilities, increases motivation and prepares students for a successful career in the context of globalization. However, in order to achieve maximum efficiency, it is important to solve emerging problems and create favorable conditions for learning. After all, knowledge of several languages is the key not only to academic success, but also to personal development.

References:

1. Baturyan M.A. Representation of sociological knowledge in special terminology. // Cultural life of the South of Russia, 2008. No. 4 (29). – pp. 26-28.
2. Lori, S. Lectures on language and linguistic method at school. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1890.
3. Bialystok, E., F. Craik, R. Klein and M. Viswanathan. Bilingualism, aging, and cognitive control: Data from the Simon Task. – Psychology and aging. 19, 2004. – pp. 290-303.
4. Brown, M. Remarks on multilingualism. – Gottingische Gelehrte Anzeigen 4, 1937. – pp. 115-130.
5. Cummins, J. (2000). Language, Power and Pedagogy: Bilingual Children in the Crossfire. Clevedon: Multilingual Matters.
6. García, O., & Wei, L. (2014). Translanguaging: Language, Bilingualism and Education. Palgrave Macmillan.