Ten years ago, a European Commission study ‘Contribution of Multilingualism to Creativity’ (Marsh, 2009) examined the potential for links between knowledge of languages and enhanced cognitive ability. The scientific meta-study reported that knowing more than one language generates a higher number of neuronal connections and stimulates multiple neuronal webs, both intra- and inter-hemispheric, which can lead to a higher capacity for generating new (creative and innovative) processes.
Knowledge of more than one language was also found to be linked to enhanced learning, problem-solving and communication competences – all of which are fundamental 21st century transversal skills.
International Schools’ 2019 Bilingual Education Summit provided insight on how much can be achieved for young people, families and societies if opportunities are available to experience quality teaching and learning in more than one language.