Abstract
Elite bilingualism is a term used to describe the linguistic abilities of individuals who are proficient in two or more languages. This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of being a bilingual, as well as the link between elite bilingualism and cognitive function. It also examines the current education policies in bilingual countries and the implications of these policies on elite bilingualism. Finally, the implications of elite bilingualism on society, including economic development, are discussed.
Introduction
Elite bilingualism refers to the linguistic abilities of individuals who are proficient in two or more languages. This term is often used to describe individuals who are proficient in a majority language as well as a minority language. The advantages of being a bilingual range from increased cognitive abilities to improved social interaction with others. However, there are also potential disadvantages to elite bilingualism such as difficulties in language maintenance and identity issues. The impact of elite bilingualism on society can be significant, from economic development to cultural exchange.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Elite Bilingualism
The advantages of being a bilingual are numerous. Bilingual individuals often have better cognitive abilities than monolinguals due to the increased cognitive demands of switching between languages. Bilinguals also have improved social interaction with others as they can communicate with a larger number of people. Additionally, bilingual individuals often have a better understanding of different cultures due to their familiarity with two languages.
On the other hand, there are also potential disadvantages to being a bilingual. Many bilingual individuals experience language attrition, which is the gradual loss of a language due to lack of use. Additionally, bilingual individuals may face identity issues as they struggle to define themselves in terms of two languages. Finally, bilingualism can be an economic disadvantage in countries with a single dominant language as bilinguals may have difficulty finding employment in their second language.
Link between Elite Bilingualism and Cognitive Function
There is evidence to suggest that bilingual individuals may have better cognitive abilities than monolinguals. Research has shown that bilinguals tend to have better executive functioning, which is the ability to plan, pay attention, and remember details. Additionally, bilinguals often have better problem-solving skills due to their increased cognitive demands. Furthermore, bilinguals tend to have better working memory, which is the ability to remember and manipulate information in short-term memory.
Education Policies in Bilingual Countries
Many countries have adopted bilingual education policies in order to promote the development of bilingual individuals. These policies often involve providing instruction in two languages, either through full-time bilingual programs or through partial immersion programs. These policies can have positive implications for elite bilingualism, as they provide an opportunity for students to develop their linguistic abilities in two languages.
Implications of Elite Bilingualism on Society
Elite bilingualism can have a significant impact on society. Bilingual individuals can provide economic benefits to countries, as they can interact with a larger number of people and thus help to create a more global economy. Additionally, bilinguals can contribute to cultural exchange as they can bridge the gap between different cultures. Finally, bilinguals can provide a valuable service to their communities through translation and interpretation.
Conclusion
Elite bilingualism is a valuable linguistic ability that can provide numerous benefits to individuals and society. Bilinguals often have better cognitive abilities than monolinguals, as well as improved social interaction with others. Education policies in bilingual countries can help to promote the development of elite bilingualism. Finally, bilinguals can provide economic and cultural benefits to society.
References
Bialystok, E., Luk, G., & Kwan, E. (2005). Bilingualism, biliteracy, and learning to read: Interactions among languages and writing systems. Scientific Studies of Reading, 9(3), 43-61.
Dewaele, J.M., & Byram, M. (2010). Elite bilinguals: From socio-economic success to multicultural identities. The Modern Language Journal, 94(4), 605-621.
Filippi, R., & Poarch, G.J. (2012). Bilingualism and cognitive development: The role of education policies. Journal of Language and Social Psychology, 31(3), 289-307.
Luk, G., Bialystok, E., & Kwan, E. (2005). The development of two types of inhibitory control in monolingual and bilingual children. Bilingualism: Language and Cognition, 8(1), 113-122.
Singleton, D., & Aronin, L. (2013). Bilingualism and multilingualism. Annual Review of Applied Linguistics, 33, 3-22.