Talking in many tongues - why more is better when it comes to languages?

By Amy Chan

Language is the medium through which humans primarily communicate with each other – it is the very skill that sets us apart from other animals. Whilst animals do have their own communication methods, the ability to communicate through language is by and far unique to humans – not only can we communicate messages to each other – we can do so in a variety of ways.  Language allows us to form relationships between one and another, express emotions and understand each other.  This brings us then to an important question about language – if language is such an essential element of communication, then does exposure to multiple languages lead to more effective communication skills?  Whilst communication is common to all humans – effective communication is not – and exposure to a variety of languages may be key to developing better communication skills.

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