Q&A: Mapping a plan to strengthen world language education

MIDDLETOWN, Pa. - Penn State Harrisburg faculty member Raquel Lodeiro is helping to lead efforts to develop a plan to strengthen world language education in Pennsylvania.

Lodeiro, assistant teaching professor of Spanish in the School of Humanities, has served on the board of the Pennsylvania State Modern Language Association (PSMLA) since 2024. Through the organization, she helped bring the PA Language Summit to Penn State Harrisburg in April, with support from the college's Office of Research and Outreach.

The summit gathered educators, business leaders and other community members to work on crafting a PA Language Roadmap - a plan that would aim to enhance Pennsylvania's economic competitiveness by strengthening world language education. Lodeiro has been part of the efforts to draft the plan, which is expected to be complete later this year.

Lodeiro recently discussed her work with PSMLA and the importance of world language education.

Q: What are the benefits of world language education?

Lodeiro: Language education is essential for creating a more interconnected, prosperous, and secure society. Language education enhances cognitive skills like problem solving and critical thinking, leading to improved academic performance; studies indicate that bilingual students often excel in standardized tests, showcasing the cognitive benefits of multilingualism. Learning new languages strengthens brain function, potentially delaying conditions like dementia and enriching cognitive reserves. On a social level, exposure to languages promotes cultural awareness, empathy and appreciation for diversity, enabling individuals to engage with broader worldviews and connect across cultures. This inclusivity strengthens communities and fosters cross-cultural communication essential for collaboration. Language education preserves linguistic diversity and promotes equity in access, creating a welcoming environment for learners of all backgrounds.

Q: How does language education impact the economy?

Lodeiro: Language education impacts the economy by boosting trade, increasing workforce productivity, and enhancing global competitiveness. A multilingual workforce is more attractive to foreign investors as it facilitates diverse markets and builds business relationships. It enables businesses to form partnerships with foreign companies, leading to new opportunities for growth and expansion. Multilingual employees are often more effective in diverse work environments, leading to increased overall productivity. Their language proficiency improves communication with and between teams, facilitating smoother workflows and reducing misunderstanding, resulting in a more efficient work environment. Language education also plays a vital role in increasing global competitiveness. Studies show that companies investing in language skills experience more success in exporting their goods. Language education not only equips individuals with valuable skills, but also stimulates various economic sectors, leading to a more robust economic development overall.

Q: What are challenges facing world language education, and how will the PA Language Roadmap help?

Lodeiro: Language education in Pennsylvania faces several challenges. Funding limitations are a major issue, with many schools struggling to secure adequate resources for language programs. This often results in a lack of qualified teachers necessary for effective instruction. There has been a significant decline in enrollment in language courses. Due to a teacher shortage, many schools experience a lack of qualified language teachers, making it difficult to offer a diverse range of language options to students. Varying educational standards across districts contribute to inconsistencies in the quality and accessibility of language education. Language education is not well integrated into other subjects, which limits its relevance and appeal to many students. A language roadmap can address these challenges through strategic language planning, such as addressing needs, resource allocation and policy development; fostering multilingualism and cultural understanding; supporting economic development; and promoting social inclusion by ensuring that language learning opportunities are available to all.

Q: What would you say to a student who is thinking about studying another language?

Lodeiro: I would highlight that a language class can provide numerous benefits: it enhances career opportunities, fosters cultural appreciation and offers travel advantages. Our engaging and interactive courses make learning enjoyable and collaborative. Spanish - which I teach - allows for rich cultural experiences through literature, art, music and cuisine. Bilingual individuals are in high demand across various fields, improving job prospects and salary potential. Additionally, knowing another language enriches travel experiences and strengthens community connections, facilitating better communication and relationships. Ultimately, learning a language is a valuable skill that lasts a lifetime.