Pros and Cons of Dual Language Programs

Most of the people that are advocates of dual language programs say that these programs are more effective at educating different types of students than other programs.

These programs typically produce better outcomes for language acquisition and cultural growth. A lot of people say that students learn a lot in their native language. It is really about learning the content that they are teaching and the different students transition into a new language as the course advances.

Another benefit to this specific program is that these programs can be very cost effective. This is due to the fact that dual language programs can reach those students that need to increase literacy efficiency within the confines of a traditional classroom. Another edge is that studies have shown that these types of programs are more effective at closing the educational performance/achievement gap than other bilingual type of programs. In these programs, the foreign language students scored better than those in other bilingual programs. Another benefit is that most studies suggest that learning one’s native language first when they are really developing reading and comprehension skills in turn increased their ability to learn in their respective foreign language.

The disadvantage is that this type of program requires a lot of start up capital. With that being said, a ton of grant money needs to be raised in order to effectively open up a dual language school/program. Not to mention, finding teachers that are bilingual can be exceedingly challenging, as well.

These schools are becoming ever so popular because the students and parents are seeing the real life benefits of them. Not only are their students learning new languages which provide them more keys to talk to different people from different types of life, but it also helps improve concentration, reading comprehension, and overall confidence. These programs are exceptional for kids and parents that simply want to get more from their education. It is a good thing to consider when you are concentrating on choosing the right school and/or program for your son and/or daughter.

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