Executive Functions and Foreign Language Learning

Abstract

Executive functions (EFs) serve as an umbrella term to describe a set of higher-order cognitive abilities that include working memory, inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, planning, reasoning, and problem-solving. Various studies suggest that foreign language learning likely promotes executive functions, but others suggest that executive functions could improve foreign language learning. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between executive functions and foreign language learning and how these processes could interact. The sample included 64 children from kindergarten, aged 4–5 years, with no documented neuropsychiatric disorders, and from the middle–high literacy group. They were divided into three groups based on the level of their knowledge of the foreign language. A significant effect of the group on the executive tasks is shown in the comparison of the groups. Children who belonged to a group that had advanced foreign language proficiency had better results in executive tasks. Our results suggest that the higher the level of foreign language proficiency, the higher the performance of the executive tasks. However, we do not know if there is a causal effect between these variables.

Keywords

• executive function
• foreign language
• learning